The Missed Warning Signs of an Unhealthy Heart

Did you know about the multiple missed warning signs of an unhealthy heart? Most of us only know to look out for the tightness of the chest and numbness in the left arm. Oh, and that a tiny pill by the name of Aspirin could save us. Nope, it is so much more complicated than that. Surprisingly, heart attacks aren’t as “dramatic” as many think. In addition, there are subtle signs that we all need to take more seriously.

Sadly, many people will mistake a heart attack for an anxiety attack, indigestion, or something that they believe is unrelated. Dr. Bernadette Anderson explained that many heart attack survivors noted that “there were no warning signs.” Furthermore, if there were any symptoms, they were minor and overlooked. And unfortunately, it is the same for heart disease because most of the time, people think Tums will handle the issue when they genuinely need a doctor.

Heart Conditions

In addition, heart disease is often mistakenly identified as a heart attack. And that is the only symptom of a sick heart, but that is inaccurate. As we know, a healthy heart is one beautiful, well-oiled machine – blood flowing and valves closing and opening. But when disrupted by a condition, the heart cannot properly function. One offender we are taught about is plaque. Plaque (fatty deposits) build up in your arteries is called atherosclerosis. These deposits are cholesterol, fatty substances, cellular waste products, calcium, and fibrin. An excessive build-up of plaque causes heart attacks or strokes. Another offender is an enlarged heart. We were all taught that having a big heart is a good thing, but not in this case. If your heart becomes too big, it cannot pump well enough to meet the body’s need for nutrients and oxygen.

7 Missed Warning Signs of an Unhealthy Heart

Do you know the signs of an unhealthy heart? If not, we have compiled a short list of warning signs that can help keep you safe.

1. Aches and pains – We often like to ignore aches and pains, but that discomfort is our body letting us know something is wrong. Headaches, pain between the shoulder blades and jaw, as well as neck, belly, and leg pain, are initially unlikely to trigger concerns about your heart, but they most certainly can be telltale hints of a faulty ticker.
2. Nausea and indigestion – While this could be a simple stomachache, a diseased heart with reduced blood flow to the digestive system diverts blood to vital organs like the brain. Thus, causing you to feel queasy.
3. Extreme fatigue – Fatigue is always a sign something is wrong, especially after you’ve had adequate rest. Your heart may be working extra hard to function.
4. Easily winded – It is not normal to be winded after simple tasks. If you are, then it could be a weak heart. The breathlessness may result from your heart not efficiently delivering adequate oxygen.
5. Swollen ankles, legs, and feet – The puffiness could be a sign of a more significant issue. And this is an issue that requires your doctor’s attention that the fluid is due to the heart not being able to pump quickly enough to prevent the backup (commonly known as heart failure).
6. Coughing and wheezing – Coughing and wheezing can be due to a cold; however, a persistent cough also happens when the heart doesn’t function properly, and fluid collects in the lungs.
7. Snoring – If it is loud enough to wake the dead and you stop breathing during your sleep, then sleep apnea could be placing a strain on your heart.

Other Signs to Look Out For

Understand your physician will also review your medical history, family history, and other risk factors. And any symptom of an unhealthy heart needs investigation until proven otherwise. Please take your heart health seriously because your heart muscle cannot regenerate and changes if it dies. . Early detection and false alarms can all save your life.