Symptoms of Heart Disease
The symptoms of heart disease vary depending on the specific condition involved. Whether it’s coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, heart failure, or valvular disease—but many signs overlap and may initially be subtle. Recognising the symptoms of heart disease is critical for early intervention, timely treatment, and improved outcomes.
One of the most common and well-known symptoms is chest pain or discomfort, also known as angina. This often presents as pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest, and may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach. It is typically triggered by physical exertion or emotional stress and relieved by rest. In some cases, the pain may be mistaken for indigestion or muscle strain.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
Shortness of breath is another hallmark symptom, often indicating that the heart is struggling to pump effectively. It may occur during activity or at rest, and in severe cases. Patients may experience difficulty breathing while lying flat, a sign of fluid accumulation from heart failure.
Other common symptoms include:
Palpitations: A sensation of fluttering, pounding, or irregular heartbeats, often associated with arrhythmias.
Fatigue: A general sense of tiredness, especially during or after physical activity, due to the heart’s reduced ability to circulate oxygen-rich blood.
Swelling (oedema): Most noticeable in the legs, ankles, or abdomen, this can result from fluid buildup associated with heart failure.
Dizziness or light-headedness: These symptoms may reflect reduced blood flow to the brain, especially in cases of arrhythmia or severe heart failure.
Fainting (syncope): Can occur due to sudden drops in blood pressure or abnormal heart rhythms that temporarily disrupt circulation.
Persistent coughing or wheezing: Often due to fluid buildup in the lungs in patients with heart failure.
Symptoms of Heart Disease
In some individuals—particularly women, older adults, and those with diabetes—symptoms may be atypical or silent. These can include nausea, jaw pain, back discomfort, unexplained fatigue, or general malaise, sometimes occurring without obvious chest pain. Silent heart disease is especially dangerous because it may go undetected until a major event like a heart attack or stroke occurs.
Children and young adults with congenital heart disease may present with poor growth, cyanosis (bluish skin), rapid breathing, or difficulty feeding and thriving.
Because the symptoms of heart disease can mimic other conditions or appear gradually, it’s important not to ignore early warning signs. Anyone experiencing persistent or unexplained symptoms—especially chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness—should seek medical attention promptly.
