9 early warning signs of heart disease

People who have had a heart attack or heart failure may experience symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and changes in their nails or skin.

Heart problems don't always have obvious signs. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath isn't the only symptom of heart disease. However, it can signal problems with heart valves or the heart's ability to pump blood. For example, in heart failure, fluid leaks into the lungs because blood gets trapped in the blood vessels that carry blood from the lungs to the heart.

Tired

Fatigue can have many causes. If you suddenly experience unusual fatigue or weakness, even though you haven't experienced this before, you should see a doctor. Unexplained exhaustion or weakness that lasts for several days could be a symptom of heart disease. In this case, the heart has difficulty pumping blood to the body's tissues.

Swollen feet

Swollen feet can be caused by many factors, including pregnancy, varicose veins (swollen veins that may be visible under the skin), or lack of exercise while traveling . Swollen feet can also be a sign of heart failure—a chronic condition in which the heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.

Dizzy

Dizziness can occur due to arterial blockage causing a drop in blood pressure. People with heart valve problems may experience dizziness; in such cases, they should stop walking, running, or cycling.

Spider veins appear

Spider veins appear as small, dilated blood vessels near the skin's surface, resembling a spiderweb. This condition can indicate certain heart valve defects, indirectly affecting heart function. It can also be a symptom of varicose veins, causing blood stagnation and poor circulation.

Leg cramps while walking

Muscle cramps in the hips and legs, pain when moving but better at rest, may be due to peripheral artery disease. This is a buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries of the legs, which is associated with a higher risk of heart disease.

Skin discoloration

Changes in skin color can also be a warning sign of heart disease. These discolorations can result from blocked arteries or blood vessels, or heart infections. Patients often notice their skin turning slightly bluish or purplish. Brown or red spots may also appear on the soles of their feet or palms.

Change your nails

Heart disease can also manifest in or around the fingernails. Clubbed fingers (swollen fingers with nails pointing downwards) are a symptom of a heart infection or heart disease. Red lines under the fingernails, not caused by injury, may indicate a heart problem.

Symptoms similar to a panic attack.

Anxiety, sweating, and nausea are typical symptoms of a panic attack, but they can also be early warning signs of a heart attack. If accompanied by shortness of breath, a feeling of fullness, or chest pain, go to the emergency room immediately.

Le Nguyen (According to Health )

Readers can submit questions about cardiovascular disease here for doctors to answer.

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