Heart health: Cardiologist shares 5 cardinal symptoms to detect heart problem

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In cases the signs are quiet, subtle or even confusing. Some people may think they are just feeling tired, stressed or having acid reflux. Ignoring these small signals can delay care when every moment matters. Early detection makes a difference. Some heart problems need help and knowing the warning signs can save a life.While symptoms can look different from person to person there are key signs that should not be brushed off. Here are five cardinal symptoms that may point to a heart problem.(Author: Dr. Lakshmi Kanth P, MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Cardiology), Consultant & Interventional Cardiologist, Apollo Hospitals, BG Road, Bangalore)

Chest discomfort is one of the well-known signs of a heart problem. It can feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, fullness or a burning sensation in the centre or left side of the chest. Some describe it as a weight pressing down on the chest.This discomfort might happen during activity or emotional stress and go away when resting. It can also show up when a person is at rest. Not all chest pain is from the heart. Unexplained or long-lasting chest discomfort should be taken seriously. Especially if it comes with warning signs it is important to act.

Shortness of breath is another flag. It happens when the heart cannot pump blood enough to meet the body’s needs. It may first show up during activities that were once easy like walking, climbing stairs or doing light exercise. Some people also have trouble breathing when they are sitting or lying down. Waking up at night gasping for air or feeling like they cannot catch their breath is a sign. Breathlessness has possible causes. Lung issues, anemia, anxiety or infections. If it is unexplained or getting worse it is not something to ignore. It is important to see a doctor rather than blaming it on fitness level or tiredness.

Feeling tired after a long day is normal. Unusual fatigue is different. It is persistent. Does not go away with rest. Some people with heart issues find they can no longer do tasks they used to manage with ease. A short walk may leave them exhausted. They feel weak and need to rest often or struggle with simple activities.In some cases, fatigue appears before symptoms. Women in particular may not have chest pain. Instead, they may have tiredness, nausea, dizziness or shortness of breath. If you have noticed a drop in energy or are unable to do what you used to do without feeling drained it is worth talking to a healthcare provider.

Heart-related pain does not always stay in the chest. It can travel to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw or upper abdomen. It might affect one arm or both. Sometimes it feels like a muscle strain or a stomach ache which can cause confusion.When chest discomfort is paired with pain spreading to parts of the upper body it is especially concerning. Even without chest pain heart problems can still happen. People with diabetes or older adults may have typical symptoms. So even if the pain is not in the chest, it should not be ignored.

Dizziness, feeling light-headed, sweating, nausea or a fast or irregular heartbeat can be signs of a heart problem. These symptoms have possible causes and do not always mean heart disease. When they show up suddenly or together with chest discomfort, breathlessness, weakness or fainting they must be taken seriously.An irregular heartbeat, called an arrhythmia can cause palpitations, dizziness or fainting. Some arrhythmias are harmless. Others need attention. If you feel your heart is racing, fluttering or skipping beats especially if it comes with symptoms, it is best to get checked.

Some symptoms require attention. If you have chest pressure or discomfort that’s severe, it lasts more than a few minutes or comes with breathlessness, cold sweats, nausea, fainting or pain that spreads to the arm, back, neck or jaw. Call for emergency help right away.Do not try to figure out the cause on your own. Do not wait. Heart attacks can show up in ways. People may have no chest pain at all, especially women or older adults. Early treatment can make a difference in outcomes.Also remember. These symptoms do not automatically mean you have heart disease. Other conditions can cause the signs. A doctor can find the cause through exams and tests like an electrocardiogram, blood tests, echocardiography or other tools.

Chest discomfort, breathlessness, unusual fatigue pain spreading to areas and symptoms like dizziness, sweating, nausea or heart palpitations should not be ignored. Even if they seem minor, they can be clues.Your heart health matters. Pay attention when symptoms feel small. If you notice a lasting change, in how you feel or how much you can do, talk to your doctor. Early detection, proper treatment and healthy lifestyle changes can protect your heart. Lower the risk of serious problems. Stay aware. Stay safe. Take care of your heart.