Cardiac Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death globally, claiming millions of lives every year. Cardiovascular diseases remain the number one cause of death worldwide. In India, heart disease starts much earlier mainly because of our genetic tendencies and diet patterns.

Common Cardiac Symptoms

• Chest Pain or Discomfort : This is perhaps the most well-known symptom of a heart problem. The sensation may vary from a dull ache to intense pressure or tightness in the chest. It’s important to know that chest pain can also be a symptom of other conditions, but it should always be taken seriously, especially if it occurs during physical activity or is accompanied by other symptoms.
• Shortness of Breath : Feeling breathless, even when at rest or during mild exertion, can indicate an underlying heart issue. This symptom may be particularly concerning if it occurs suddenly or is accompanied by chest pain, dizziness, or lightheartedness. In such a situation, immediately consult with a cardiologist at a leading heart hospital
• Fatigue : Persistent fatigue or weakness, especially if it interferes with daily activities, could be a sign of heart disease. This fatigue may occur even with sufficient rest and sleep and may worsen with physical exertion.
• Swelling: Fluid retention or swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen, may indicate heart failure. The heart’s inability to pump blood effectively can lead to fluid buildup in the body’s tissues, causing swelling.
• Irregular Heartbeat : An irregular heartbeat is also known as arrhythmia and can manifest as palpitations or a rapid sounding heartbeat. When it happens occasionally, it may not be a cause for concern, but when they occur frequently, they need to be evaluated at the best heart hospital.
• Dizziness or Fainting : This could be a sign of insufficient blood flow to the brain, and due to an underlying heart condition. It is important to seek medical opinion at the best cardio hospital if these symptoms occur, when accompanied heart-related conditions are present.
• Nausea or Indigestion : Sometimes, nausea, indigestion, or abdominal discomfort may be the primary symptom of a heart attack. These symptoms can look like gastrointestinal symptoms and should be evaluated by the best cardio surgeon if they occur along with other heart symptoms.

Prevention and Early Intervention

• Eating a balanced diet : Include vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats and cut down on saturated fats, sodium, added sugar etc
• Healthy weight : Maintain a body mass index (BMI) within the healthy range and avoid excessive weight gain or obesity.
• Regular exercise : Make a routine with regular physical activity, with at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week and incorporate strength training
• Managing stress : Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to promote emotional well-being
• Cut down smoking and excessive alcohol consumption : Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to reduce the risk of heart disease
• Regular health check-ups : Schedule regular appointments with your doctor for routine screenings, and preventive care.

A holistic approach such as eating wisely, maintaining a healthy weight, doing regular exercises, effective stress management, limiting smoking and alcohol along with regular health checkup can help you reduce the risk of heart disease and promote physical, emotional and mental well being.