A physician has highlighted six understated warning signs that might suggest the onset of one of the most lethal illnesses globally. Coronary heart disease continues to be a major cause of mortality across the globe. However, bariatric surgeon Dr. Igor Troickis has pointed out that early indicators are often ignored, as they’re mistaken for trivial health concerns. In the UK, coronary heart disease is responsible for the death of one in eight men and one in 14 women, claiming around 26,000 lives annually among those younger than 75.
In an interview with Express.co.uk, Dr. Troickis, from Weight Loss Riga, stressed the critical nature of detecting these inconspicuous signs to avoid serious health issues.
“Heart disease can advance unnoticed,” he mentioned. “Many people have minor symptoms which they attribute to stress or getting older. Yet, these symptoms are key alerts to underlying health problems.”
Chest discomfort is an early warning sign of heart problems.
Dr. Troickis explained, “Angina, which is chest pain or discomfort, can feel like pressure, tightness, or fullness in the middle of the chest. It might come and go, lasting only a few minutes each time.”
“It’s important not to ignore this symptom, especially if it occurs during physical activity or stressful moments.”
Shortness of breath
Another key warning sign is shortness of breath. Dr. Troickis mentioned, “If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing during normal activities or even while at rest, it could indicate that your heart isn’t pumping effectively.”
“This symptom is often overlooked but can be a crucial indicator of potential heart problems.”
Dr. Troickis also highlighted the significance of recognizing unusual fatigue.
He stated, “Persistent, unexplained tiredness could be a symptom of heart disease. If you find yourself constantly exhausted despite getting enough rest, it’s wise to consult a doctor.”
Leg, ankle, or foot swelling
Watch for swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.
“Swelling, known as edema, might indicate that your heart is struggling to pump blood effectively,” Dr. Troickis said.
“It often accompanies weight gain and needs immediate medical attention.” Heart palpitations, such as a fluttering or irregular heartbeat, could also signal a problem.
Dr. Troickis noted, “While palpitations can result from stress or caffeine, frequent occurrences should be evaluated by a doctor.”
Pain in different body areas
Lastly, Dr. Troickis mentioned that pain in various body parts could be related to heart disease.
“Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back, especially on the left side, is a warning sign,” he explained.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your GP.
He concluded, “Recognizing these early signs and seeking medical advice promptly can make a significant difference.”
“Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the progression of heart disease.”
Dr. Troickis pointed out that certain individuals are at higher risk for heart disease, including those with a family history, smokers, people with high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetics, and those who are overweight. “Being overweight is a major risk factor,” Dr. Troickis said.
“Excess body weight increases the heart’s workload, raises blood pressure, and elevates cholesterol levels, all contributing to heart disease.”