10 Warning Signs Your Heart Might Be in Trouble

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10 Warning Signs Your Heart Might Be in Trouble – Don’t Ignore These Symptoms

Your heart is your body’s most vital organ — it never stops working, and neither should your attention to its health. Many people ignore subtle warning signs until it’s too late. As a Senior Consultant and Head of Cardiology at Akash Super Speciality Hospital, I, Dr. Ashish Agarwal, urge everyone to recognize the early symptoms that could indicate serious heart issues. Early detection can save your life or the life of someone you love.

Here are 10 warning signs that your heart might be in trouble.

Chest Discomfort or Pain

Often described as tightness, pressure, heaviness, or squeezing, chest pain is the most common sign of a heart attack. It may last more than a few minutes or come and go. Never ignore it — seek immediate medical help.

Shortness of Breath

Struggling to catch your breath, especially during mild activity or while lying down, can indicate heart failure or blocked arteries. If you feel winded without a clear reason, it’s time to get evaluated.

Pain in the Arm, Neck, Jaw, or Back

Heart problems don’t always cause chest pain. Discomfort may radiate to other areas, particularly the left arm, jaw, or upper back. These are commonly overlooked signs of a heart attack, especially in women.

Irregular or Rapid Heartbeat

While occasional palpitations are normal, frequent or sustained irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) could signal an underlying heart condition. Dizziness or fainting along with this symptom is especially dangerous.

Extreme Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired even after rest may indicate that your heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently. Fatigue can be an early and subtle sign of heart disease, particularly in women.

Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet

Fluid buildup in the lower limbs can occur when the heart is too weak to pump blood properly. This can be a sign of heart failure and needs urgent evaluation.

Persistent Cough or Wheezing

A chronic cough that produces white or pink mucus may indicate fluid in the lungs due to heart failure. If your cough is unexplained and persistent, consult your doctor immediately.

Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Feeling faint, dizzy, or experiencing sudden blackouts can be caused by a drop in blood pressure or irregular heartbeat — both of which can signal serious heart issues.

Cold Sweats or Nausea

Breaking out in a cold sweat or feeling nauseous or lightheaded for no clear reason could be a symptom of a heart attack, especially when combined with chest discomfort or shortness of breath.

Snoring or Sleep Apnea

Loud snoring, gasping for air, or interrupted breathing during sleep may be signs of sleep apnea — a condition that significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Final Thoughts from Dr. Ashish Agarwal

Heart disease often creeps in silently. Recognizing these early signs can make a crucial difference. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t delay — consult a cardiologist immediately.

At Akash Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostics and comprehensive cardiac care. I am dedicated to helping you understand your heart’s health and taking the steps necessary to protect it.

Your heart speaks — make sure you're listening.