What Are The 10 Signs Of An Unhealthy Heart?
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing more people than all forms of cancer combined. One of the best ways to detect heart trouble is to learn about the symptoms. The more you know, the more likely you are to catch problems early and save yourself.
Author:Stefano MclaughlinReviewer:Karan EmeryFeb 24, 2023104.1K Shares1.6M Views
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing more people than all forms of cancer combined. One of the best ways to detect heart trouble is to learn about the symptoms. The more you know, the more likely you are to catch problems early and save yourself.
One of the most common signs of an unhealthy heart is chest pain. However, this does not necessarily mean you have a heart attack. It could also be a sign of other problems.
Besides chest discomfort, there are many other less obvious symptoms of an unhealthy heart. A few of these include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, and shortness of breath. If you experience any of these, you should visit a doctor.
Some of the other signs of an unhealthy heart include coughing, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeats. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
Continue reading if you want to know more about the 10 common signs of an unhealthy heart.
10 Common Signs of an Unhealthy Heart
Here are the common signs and symptoms of an unhealthy heart. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is better to consult a doctor.
Shortness of Breath
If you have shortness of breath, it could be a sign of a heart problem. Breathlessnessis a common symptom of several medical conditions, including respiratory illness, lung disease, and cardiovascular issues. It can be mild or severe and may interfere with your daily activities. Shortness of breath is one of the most common symptoms of a heart attack. However, there are a few other signs that you should be watching out for.
Chest Discomfort
If you've been experiencing chest discomfort, you may be at risk of heart disease. It is the most common symptom of an unhealthy heart. There are many different conditions that can cause chest pain, including angina. Anginais a type of chest pain that occurs when the blood supply to the muscles of the heart is reduced. Symptoms of angina are often described as a dull ache, a tightness in the chest, and a feeling of pressure.
Feeling Dizzy or Lightheaded
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is a common symptom of an unhealthy heart. They are also warning signs that you might have a stroke. Symptoms of a stroke include weakness, slurred speech, vision problems, and trouble walking. These symptoms are often caused by a blockage in the arteries. The blockage could be caused by a build-up of fatty material or cholesterol.
Left Shoulder Pain
When you're experiencing left shoulder pain, it's always important to get medical help right away. Getting it checked out early could save your life. Pain in your left arm is a symptom of a heart problem. It is not always caused by a heart attack, but you should be cautious if it is. You may have to undergo blood work or a chest X-ray to find out the cause of your pain.
Swollen Feet
If you have swollen feet, it is probably because you are having heart problems. Heart failure can cause swollen feet, but it is also a common symptom of other health conditions. You may be experiencing other symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or weight gain. It is important to consult with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Irregular Heartbeat
Irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia, is a form of heart disease that can cause serious health complications. It can be caused by several factors. Among these are high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and congenital heart disease. Irregular heartbeat is also a common symptom of heart problems.
Constant Fatigue
If you have been feeling fatigued for a long time, you may be suffering from an unhealthy heart. Fatigue is a common symptom of many diseases and illnesses. There are several types of heart conditions that can cause you to experience fatigue. Moreover, some of these include coronary artery disease, thyroid disease, and sleep apnea.
Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation that usually occurs in the chest. It can be mild or severe. Some people may experience heartburn after eating. However, it can also be a symptom of heart problems. If you are experiencing heartburn along with other symptoms, you should also see a doctor immediately.
Fluttering In The Chest
The fluttering in the chest is a very common symptom of an unhealthy heart. It is not a life-threatening condition, but it can be a sign of something more serious. If you are experiencing this, see a physician right away. Palpitationsare a sudden and unsettling feeling of your heart racing.
Dry or Persistent Cough
One of the most common signs of an unhealthy heart is a dry or persistent cough. It is an annoyance to many, but it can be a sign of a more serious problem. If you experience a cough that persists longer than a week, it is important to see your healthcare provider.
Tips to Keep a Healthy Heart
It is important to make sure that you are doing everything you can to keep your heart healthy. Whether you are young or old, you should be mindful of your diet, exercise, and stress levels to avoid complications associated with heart disease. Moreover, here are some effective tips to keep your heart healthy.
- Control Your Cholesterol Levels
- Exercise Regularly
- Eat Foods That Are Good for Your Heart
- Drink Plenty of Water
- Track Heart Health With The App
- Stop Smoking & Reduce Alcohol Intake
- Go for Regular Health Checkups
What Is The First Sign of Heart Failure?
Some of the first signs of heart failure include chest pain, irregular heartbeats, and dizziness. Although these symptoms are common in patients with heart failure, they can occur in other people as well.
Some other common symptoms of heart failure are coughing, fatigue, and a loss of appetite. Coughing can be a sign of heart failure because it triggers the production of mucus that can build up in the lungs and interfere with normal breathing.
Conclusion
There are many ways to know if your heart is healthy, but there are also a few obvious signs that you should pay attention to. If you start to experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away. Chest pain is a very common sign that your heart is not functioning properly. This can occur in either a sudden or gradual way. Moreover, it can even be accompanied by shortness of breath. Heartburn is another sign that your heart is not working correctly.
Stefano Mclaughlin
Author
Stefano Mclaughlin is a Psychologist focused on mental health, emotional well-being, and healthcare policy. He studied Psychology and Public Health at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, gaining a deep understanding of the intersection between mental health and public policy.
Stefano's mission is clear: he aims to destigmatize mental health discussions, improve access to mental healthcare, and promote emotional well-being for all. Drawing from personal experiences with anxiety and depression, Stefano shares real stories to make mental health topics more relatable and less intimidating.
In addition to his advocacy work, Stefano enjoys delving into books, experimenting in the kitchen, and embarking on new adventures. These hobbies fuel his creativity and inspire fresh perspectives for his advocacy work.
Karan Emery
Reviewer
Karan Emery, an accomplished researcher and leader in health sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, brings over two decades of experience to the table. Holding a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Stanford University, Karan's credentials underscore her authority in the field.
With a track record of groundbreaking research and numerous peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals, Karan's expertise is widely recognized in the scientific community.
Her writing style is characterized by its clarity and meticulous attention to detail, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. Apart from her professional endeavors, Karan enjoys cooking, learning about different cultures and languages, watching documentaries, and visiting historical landmarks.
Committed to advancing knowledge and improving health outcomes, Karan Emery continues to make significant contributions to the fields of health, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.
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