The heart works like the engine of your body. It keeps you alive by pumping blood to your organs and tissues.
But like any engine, it can run into problems. Knowing the early signs of heart trouble can help you get treatment sooner and improve your chances of staying healthy.
This guide explains six key signs that your heart might not be working as well as it should—using simple language so anyone can understand.
1. Chest Discomfort or Pain One of the most common signs of heart trouble is chest pain, also known as angina. It may feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or fullness in the center of your chest. This usually happens when the heart isn’t getting enough oxygen-rich blood.
People sometimes ignore this symptom because it’s not as dramatic as heart attacks shown in movies. But if you notice chest pain that keeps coming back—especially during exercise or stress and goes away when you rest—see a doctor right away.
2. Shortness of Breath If your heart can’t pump enough blood, you might feel short of breath. This can happen when you’re walking, climbing stairs, or even when you’re resting or lying down.
Shortness of breath is a common sign of heart failure, a condition where the heart becomes weaker and can’t pump blood as well. If you notice this symptom, especially along with chest pain or fatigue, talk to a healthcare provider.
3. Unusual Fatigue Feeling tired all the time, even when you’ve had enough sleep, can be a warning sign. When the heart isn’t working properly, it doesn’t deliver enough oxygen to the rest of the body, which makes you feel worn out.
This is especially important to watch for in women, who are more likely to feel fatigue as a first sign of heart disease. If you’re constantly feeling tired for no clear reason, get it checked out.
4. Swelling in Legs, Ankles, and Feet If your legs, ankles, or feet are swelling, your heart might be the cause. A weak heart can lead to fluid buildup in the body—a condition known as edema. Swelling in the lower body is a common symptom of heart failure. If you notice this along with tiredness or shortness of breath, it’s important to see your doctor soon.
5. Irregular Heartbeat An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, can feel like your heart is skipping beats, racing, or fluttering.
Occasional palpitations can be harmless, but if it’s happening often, or if it’s new for you, it could be a sign of a heart condition. This is especially true if you also feel dizzy or faint when it happens. Don’t ignore an unusual heartbeat—get it checked.
6. Dizziness or Lightheadedness Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can mean your heart isn’t sending enough blood to your brain. This could be due to a blockage in your arteries or a problem with one of your heart valves. If dizziness comes on suddenly, especially with chest pain or breathing trouble, it’s time to get medical help.
Watching out for these signs can help you catch heart problems early. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Regular check-ups and paying attention to your body’s signals can make a big difference in staying healthy.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about heart disease hidden and essential vitamins for heart health: a guide to a healthy heart.
For more information about heart health, please read studies about the stuff in your mouth that can increase heart attack risk and statin alternative lowers risk of heart disease as well as cholesterol levels.
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