Living a healthy lifestyle and heart health go hand in hand. It’s easy to get into a rut with busy routines and responsibilities. The first step to a healthier heart is knowing the warning signs and symptoms of an unhealthy heart. Often, people don’t know they have heart problems until it is almost too late. What may present as fatigue and weariness can actually be a hidden symptom of an unidentified heart problem. Not all signs are clear, so the more you and your family are educated about heart health, the better. Check out these five symptoms to be prepared. If you’ve experienced any of these signs, take action to prevent prolonged heart disease.
Extreme exhaustion
You may have a heart condition if tasks that are usually easy to complete are now giving you trouble. For instance, if you become fatigued or winded after climbing stairs or carrying groceries from the car, visit your doctor for a heart workup.
Snoring
Believe it or not, unusually loud snoring can be a sign of an unhealthy heart. It’s normal to snore some during sleep but sounds of gasping or choking can signify sleep apnea, a condition that puts stress on your heart. A CPAP machine can help steady your breathing while you snooze.
Throat or jaw pain
Pain that creeps up your throat and into your jaw could be a symptom of a heart attack. If you experience this discomfort coupled with pain or pressure in the center of your chest, call 911 and seek medical attention. Throat or jaw aches without chest pain is more than likely caused by a muscular issue, a cold or a sinus problem and not a heart symptom.
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
Not eating enough or standing up too fast can make you feel woozy, but if you suddenly feel unsteady and also have chest irritation or shortness of breath, it means your blood pressure could have dropped because your heart isn’t able to pump the way it should.
Continuous coughing
Colds and illnesses are the usual suspects when experiencing a long-lasting cough, but if you’re coughing up white or pink mucus, it could be a sign of heart failure. Blood leaks into the lungs when the heart can’t keep up with the body’s demands.
Visit your doctor to explore any symptoms that may signify a heart condition. It’s always best to get checked out and take preventive measures if needed.
Am I a Candidate?
Determine if you are at risk for developing or already have symptoms for venous disease.