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Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In the USA approximately 610,000 people die each year from a heart attack, which is an alarming number. The heart is a vital organ, and if it does not function properly, it can lead to serious health problems.
Prevention of heart disease is key, and one way to protect yourself is to recognize warning signs early.
Heart disease can affect both men and women, and today it can appear at a younger age if a person lives an unhealthy lifestyle. Most people often ignore these warning signs and do not address them until they lead to serious problems. In this article we present 5 warning signs that indicate your heart may not be functioning as it should.
1. Chest and shoulder pain
Chest pain that radiates into the left arm is one of the main warning signs of a heart attack. In men the pain may be felt only in the left arm, but in women the pain can spread to the elbows and both arms. If you have recurring pain that starts in the chest and moves into the arm, never ignore it. Sometimes this pain can be confusing because the nerves in the body are connected and the brain may have difficulty distinguishing its source.
Why can this be a problem?
If you do not react in time, it can lead to a heart attack or other serious heart conditions. If the pain does not subside or gets worse, seek medical help immediately.
2. Persistent cough
A persistent cough that does not go away can be a sign of heart failure or reduced lung function. If you have a cough that appears repeatedly and persists, it may signal that your heart is not able to pump blood properly, which can lead to further problems in the lungs.
If the cough is accompanied by shortness of breath or swelling, you should see a specialist. The cough can therefore be a warning sign that your heart needs attention.
3. Swelling of the legs, ankles and calves
If your heart pumps blood properly, it usually does not affect other parts of the body. However if you have cardiovascular disease, excess fluid can appear in the body, causing swelling, especially in the legs, ankles and calves. This swelling is often associated with circulatory problems and may be a sign that your heart is not working efficiently.
If you notice that you have swollen legs or ankles, do not neglect it. This symptom could signal a serious problem with the heart or blood vessels.
4. Loss of appetite and feelings of nausea
Loss of appetite and frequent feelings of nausea may also indicate heart problems. People suffering from heart disease may feel less hungry or have trouble digesting, even if they ate very little. This symptom may be caused by fluids that accumulate in the liver area and affect digestion.
If you have abdominal pain or other digestive problems along with loss of appetite, you should consult a specialist, because it may be a sign of serious heart disease. Do not ignore this warning sign.
5. High level of anxiety
Anxiety can have a negative impact on your heart. Many studies have shown that people who suffer from a high level of anxiety have a higher risk of having a heart attack. Excessive stress, work overload, poor eating habits and other factors can increase anxiety levels, which affects your heart health.
High stress can lead to high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats, which can lead to serious heart problems. If you feel that your anxiety is long-term and significantly affects your health, it is time to seek help and improve your mental and physical health.
Prevention is key!
Each of these warning signs should be taken seriously. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart problems can save lives. A healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, a proper diet and minimizing stress are the foundations for maintaining a healthy heart.
If you notice any of these symptoms, do not hesitate and visit a doctor. Heart disease can be dangerous, but if detected early, it can be successfully treated.
