Do I Have Heart Disease? 5 Signs to Know About

Heart disease can sometimes develop quietly. Many people do not realize they have it until they experience a serious event such as a heart attack, heart failure or an irregular heartbeat. That is why knowing the early signs is so important.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. While the risk increases with age, it can affect adults of all ages. Understanding the warning signs and how to protect your heart can help you stay healthy and prevent complications.

What is the circulatory system?

Your circulatory system, also called the cardiovascular system, is the network responsible for sending blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. It consists of your heart, which acts as the pump, and a complex web of blood vessels including arteries, veins and capillaries. 

When this system works correctly, your body receives everything it needs to function. When it is weakened or blocked, your heart has to work harder, which can lead to heart disease and other serious problems.

What are cardiovascular diseases?

Cardiovascular diseases are conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. Common examples include:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD): Narrowed or blocked blood vessels that supply the heart
• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): Narrowing of blood vessels in the arms and legs
• Congenital heart disease: Heart problems present at birth
• Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: Blood clots that start in the legs and may travel to the lungs

Understanding these conditions can help you recognize symptoms and seek care early.

What causes heart disease?

Heart disease often develops over time. It can be influenced by genetics, lifestyle habits and other medical conditions. Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque (a mix of fat, cholesterol and other substances) inside your arteries, is a primary cause. This plaque hardens and narrows the arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your organs and other parts of your body.

What are five signs of heart disease? 

Not all symptoms of heart disease are sudden or severe. Some are subtle and easy to overlook. Here are five warning signs to pay attention to:

1. Extreme fatigue: Feeling tired is normal but feeling unusually exhausted after simple tasks may be a sign your heart is working too hard. If everyday activities leave you drained, talk with your doctor.
2. Jaw pain: Jaw pain alone may not be heart related. But chest pain or pressure that spreads to your jaw, neck or throat can be a sign of a heart attack. This is a medical emergency, call 911 right away.
3. Swelling in legs or ankles: If your heart cannot pump blood effectively, fluid may build up in your legs, ankles or feet. Swelling in one or both legs, especially with shortness of breath, should be checked by a doctor immediately.
4. Leg or hip pain while walking: Pain or cramping in your hips, thighs or calves when you walk may be a symptom of PAD. The pain often improves with rest. This means your leg muscles may not be getting enough blood flow.
5. Trouble breathing when lying down: If lying flat makes breathing difficult, it may be due to fluid buildup in the lungs, a common symptom of heart failure. Sitting up often helps, but this symptom should be evaluated by a doctor.

What are risk factors for heart disease?

Some key risk factors for heart disease include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking

Other factors that increase risk include:

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Poor diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Excessive alcohol use

How can I prevent heart disease?

You can take meaningful steps to lower your risk and support heart health:

• Eat heart-healthy foods: Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and foods low in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
• Stay active: Regular exercise supports heart and blood vessel health
• Maintain a healthy weight: This reduces strain on your heart
• Don’t smoke: Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart
• Limit alcohol: Too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure

Your heart health is in your hands, and we are here to help you every step of the way. If you have concerns about your heart or notice any symptoms, talk with your doctor. Early care can make a big difference.

Take the first step towards a healthy heart and schedule an appointment with a cardiologist today!