(GoHealthier.com)
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 17.9 million people die from cardiovascular diseases each year, making it the leading cause of death globally. While many people are aware of common signs of a heart attack—such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and radiating pain down the arm—but certain unexpected signs can indicate an increased risk of a future cardiac event. Here are some surprising early warning signs:
1. Jaw, Neck, or Upper Back Pain
• Discomfort in the jaw, neck, or upper back can sometimes signal heart issues, especially if it occurs suddenly or with physical exertion. Pain in these areas may be “referred pain” from the heart.
2. Unexplained Fatigue
• Persistent, unexplained fatigue, particularly in women, can be an early sign of heart trouble. If daily activities suddenly become exhausting, it could be an indicator that the heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently.
3. Frequent Indigestion, Heartburn, or Nausea
• Some people experience digestive symptoms, like nausea or a burning sensation in the chest, as a warning of heart problems. These symptoms, especially if new or worsening with exertion, may be signs of reduced blood flow to the heart.
4. Sleep Disturbances
• Trouble sleeping or frequent waking could indicate stress or changes in cardiovascular health. Some studies suggest that people who develop insomnia or wake up frequently during the night may have a higher risk of a cardiac event.
5. Swollen Ankles, Feet, or Legs
• Fluid buildup in the lower extremities may be a sign of heart failure. When the heart can’t pump efficiently, blood flow slows down, causing fluid to accumulate in tissues.
6. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, especially during physical activity, can be an indicator of heart problems, such as abnormal heart rhythms or reduced blood flow to the brain.
7. Shortness of Breath with Mild Exertion
• Difficulty breathing during simple activities, such as walking up stairs or light exercise, could indicate that the heart isn’t effectively pumping blood, potentially due to blocked arteries or heart valve problems.
8. Cold Sweats
• Breaking out in a sudden, clammy sweat can sometimes indicate heart trouble. Cold sweats without an obvious cause, like intense exercise or heat, can be a stress response triggered by the heart struggling.
9. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in Men
• Erectile dysfunction may be an early sign of heart disease. It often results from compromised blood flow, which can be caused by the same factors that lead to coronary artery disease.
10. Gum Disease and Poor Oral Health
• Gum disease and inflammation in the mouth have been linked to cardiovascular disease. Chronic inflammation in the body can contribute to atherosclerosis, where the arteries become clogged or hardened.
11. Irregular Heartbeat or Palpitations
• Occasionally feeling your heart skip a beat or beat irregularly can be normal, but frequent or noticeable palpitations could suggest an issue with the heart’s electrical system or an underlying condition.
12. Shoulder Pain
• Persistent or radiating pain in one or both shoulders can sometimes be linked to heart issues, especially if it occurs with exertion and subsides with rest.
When to Seek Help
If you experience any of these symptoms consistently or they worsen over time, it’s wise to speak to a healthcare provider. Early detection and lifestyle changes can greatly reduce the risk of a heart attack or other cardiac events.
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