Could You Be Missing These Heart Disease Warning Signs?

Recognizing Heart Disease Symptoms

Heart disease doesn’t always announce itself. But you usually learn about it through regular checkups or testing, rather than in the middle of an emergency, such as a heart attack.

Symptoms often appear long before an emergency, but sometimes, they’re overlooked or attributed to other conditions. Recognizing these early signs is critical to preventing serious complications like heart failure or worsening heart conditions.

These early signs may be subtle and gradual, unlike the intense and sudden symptoms of a heart attack.

Call 911 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room if you are experiencing chest pain or discomfort, especially if it spreads to your arms, back, neck, or jaw. This could be a sign of a heart attack. Don't wait! Every minute counts in a heart emergency.

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Key Symptoms of Heart Disease

Heart disease symptoms can vary based on age, gender, and overall health. Below are the most common signs to watch for:

Common Symptoms to Watch For:

  • Chest Discomfort: Persistent pressure, tightness, or discomfort in the chest, often signaling reduced blood flow to the heart.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing during activity or rest, a sign of the heart not pumping efficiently.
  • Fatigue: Persistent tiredness without a clear cause, often tied to reduced heart efficiency.
  • Swelling: Fluid buildup in the legs, ankles, or feet, which may indicate heart failure.
  • Lightheadedness or Dizziness: A sign that the heart may not be supplying enough blood to the brain.
  • Irregular Heartbeat: Noticeable flutters or racing sensations could indicate arrhythmia.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in Women

Women often experience heart disease symptoms differently than men, which can make them harder to recognize:

  • Subtle Discomfort: Women are more likely to experience vague chest or upper body discomfort rather than sharp chest pain.
  • Unusual Fatigue: Persistent fatigue that may occur weeks or months before other symptoms.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Trouble sleeping or shortness of breath at night could signal a chronic heart condition.
  • Digestive Symptoms: Mild indigestion or heartburn may appear instead of chest discomfort.

Symptoms of Heart Disease in Men

Men are more likely to experience the classic symptoms of heart disease:

  • Chest Discomfort: Persistent pressure or tightness in the chest, often linked to coronary artery disease.
  • Shortness of Breath: Common in both men and women but may be more pronounced in men.
  • Fatigue or Weakness: Chronic tiredness can indicate the heart is not working efficiently.

Why These Symptoms Matter

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions every year. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 deaths in the U.S. is due to heart disease.

Early detection plays a vital role in improving outcomes. Recognizing symptoms and seeking care early can reduce the risk of heart failure and improve quality of life. Regular checkups are essential for identifying issues before they lead to serious complications.

Unsure about your heart health? Take CHRISTUS Health’s quick online assessment to get answers fast: Take the questionnaire.

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease includes a range of conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly. The most common is coronary artery disease, which occurs when plaque buildup in the arteries restricts blood flow to the heart. Other types include:

  • Heart Valve Disease: Problems with the heart’s valves can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat.
  • Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms can lead to fluttering sensations, dizziness, or fainting.
  • Heart Failure: When the heart can’t pump blood effectively, it causes swelling in the legs, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

Understanding Risk Factors for Heart Disease

Heart disease risk factors include:

  • High Blood Pressure: Blood pressure above 130/80 mm Hg puts extra strain on your heart.
  • High Cholesterol: Too much LDL ("bad cholesterol") can clog arteries, while HDL ("good cholesterol") helps clear it.
  • Smoking: Damages blood vessels and raises your heart disease risk significantly.
  • Family History: A close relative with heart disease increases your likelihood of developing it.
  • Obesity: Extra weight raises blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
  • Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels and increases the risk of coronary artery disease.

Taking Action Today

  • Know Your Risk Factors: Identify what might increase your risk and address them proactively.
  • Schedule Regular Checkups: Routine visits help detect potential problems early.
  • Make Lifestyle Changes: Focus on diet, exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking.
  • Take an Online Assessment: CHRISTUS offers a quick online heart health assessment to help you understand your risk and take the next step.