8 signs seen in our body that can indicate the risk of heart disease and what should be done about it

8 signs seen in our body that can indicate the risk of heart disease, and what should be done about it


8 warning signs that can point to heart disease and what to do about them


Heart disease is called the "silent killer" because it can creep up slowly without obvious symptoms. An estimated 17.9 million people die from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) each year, making them the world's leading cause of mortality. Our bodies do give us subtle signs that something might be wrong, and these signs shouldn’t be ignored. Recognising the early signals and addressing them can help prevent serious complications later on. Here are 8 common body signs that could indicate an increased risk of heart disease and what should be done about them.


Dizziness on standing up quickly

This sensation occurs when blood doesn't flow efficiently to the brain, possibly due to heart-related issues. A sudden drop in blood pressure or heart problems could be the root cause. It's crucial to avoid sudden movements, stay hydrated, and ensure a balanced diet. If the dizziness persists, a visit to the doctor is advised to rule out heart conditions like arrhythmia or other vascular issues.



Shortness of breath

This happens when the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, often due to heart failure or other underlying issues. If shortness of breath is frequent, it's essential to get a heart check-up. Lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and a heart-healthy diet, can help improve heart function.


Difficulty bending down

This difficulty might occur because the heart isn't pumping enough oxygenated blood to the muscles, leading to exhaustion during even small movements. It's important to pay attention to these signs and see a healthcare provider. Keeping physically active with appropriate exercises can help improve blood circulation and heart health.



Palpitations

Palpitations can happen if the heart is under stress, suffering from arrhythmias, or experiencing an overload of stress hormones. If palpitations are frequent, seek medical advice. The doctor may suggest heart monitoring or other diagnostic tests to understand the cause. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques and regular physical activity may also help.


Tightness of the chest

This sensation often points to angina or even a heart attack, where the heart is not receiving enough oxygen due to blocked arteries. If chest tightness is experienced, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like pain radiating to the arm or jaw, immediate medical attention is necessary. Regular check-ups can help detect heart disease early.



Arm pain: Neck or upper arms

Arm pain can be caused by heart issues because the nerves that signal pain from the heart can also affect the upper body. If arm pain is unexplained and associated with other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath, it’s important to seek emergency care immediately. Early intervention can save lives.


Chest discomfort (excluding tightness)

While tightness is a common indicator, discomfort that doesn’t necessarily feel tight can also be related to heart problems, particularly when it comes from blocked arteries. It's essential to see a doctor if this sensation occurs frequently. The doctor might perform tests like an ECG or a stress test to check heart health.

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Frequent extra or skipped heartbeats

These irregularities in heartbeat can be caused by stress, anxiety, or more serious conditions like atrial fibrillation. If these skipped beats are regular or coupled with dizziness or fainting, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. In many cases, lifestyle changes, medications, or treatments like cardioversion can help.