By Bipinpreet S. Nagra, MD
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, but it often goes unnoticed until a major event like a heart attack occurs.
That’s because the signs of heart disease can often be subtle or “silent.”
However, by understanding your risk factors, knowing the warning signs, and working with your doctor, you can identify heart disease early and take steps to protect your health.
Know Your Risk Factors
Some of the most significant risk factors for heart disease are silent, meaning they often don’t cause symptoms until serious damage has occurred. Here’s what to watch out for:
- High blood pressure. Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure is one of the most common and dangerous risk factors. It can damage your arteries and increase your risk of heart attack. Lifestyle changes or medication can help control your blood pressure and thus reduce your risk for heart disease and heart attack.
- High cholesterol. Too much cholesterol in your blood can narrow arteries and reduce blood flow to vital organs. Like high blood pressure, it usually has no symptoms. A simple blood test can check your levels. If your cholesterol is elevated, your doctor may prescribe medication to help keep it in check.
- Diabetes. If you have diabetes, your risk of developing heart disease is significantly higher. High blood sugar can damage your blood vessels and nerves—including those that control your heart. Keeping your diabetes under control is critical for your heart health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the risk for heart disease for adults with diabetes is two times higher for adults who do not have diabetes.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
Heart disease doesn’t always come with a dramatic warning, but there are signs your body may be giving you. If you notice any of the following, seek prompt medical attention.
- Chest discomfort. This may feel like pressure, tightness, pain, or a squeezing sensation. It might last several minutes or come and go—especially during activity or stress.
- Shortness of breath. When the heart can’t pump blood efficiently, it can result in a buildup of fluid in the lungs, which can cause shortness of breath even during mild activities or when at rest.
- Fatigue or weakness. Feeling unusually tired, even after rest, or struggling to complete everyday tasks may point to a heart issue.
- Pain in other areas. Discomfort in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen, or back can sometimes be linked to heart problems, especially if it occurs with other symptoms.
- Heart palpitations, which may feel like fluttering in the chest, a racing heart, or irregular heartbeats. Even though occasional palpitations can be normal, they may also indicate an interruption in the heart’s electrical system, which can lead to arrythmias.
- Dizziness or fainting. Dizziness or fainting can result from poor blood flow to the brain and may indicate a heart problem.
- Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet. If your heart isn’t pumping effectively, fluid can build up in your lower body—a condition known as edema.
- Persistent cough. A chronic cough, especially if it produces pink or white mucus, can be a sign of heart failure due to fluid buildup in the lungs.
If you notice any symptoms on their own or in combination with others, it is important to see your doctor.
Additionally, some people with early heart disease may have no symptoms at all, which is why it is important to stay up to date on your regular health check-ups to detect any problems early.
Know When to Call 9-1-1
A heart attack can strike suddenly — and taking quick action saves lives. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience:
- Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes.
- Pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
- Shortness of breath with or without chest pain.
- Other symptoms, including breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health
Heart disease is preventable and manageable. By adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle—eating well, staying active, not smoking, and managing stress—you can lower your risk and improve your quality of life.
Above all, listen to your body. Don’t brush off unusual symptoms. Talk to your doctor about your risks, schedule regular check-ups, and take steps to stay heart healthy.
To find a physician affiliated with Penn Medicine Princeton Health, call (888) 742-7496 or visit www.princetonhcs.org.
Bipinpreet S. Nagra, MD, is board certified in cardiovascular disease and is a member of the medical staff at Penn Medicine Princeton Health.
