A doctor has revealed six subtle red flags that could be early indicators of one of the deadliest diseases on the planet coronary heart disease, a leading cause of death globally.
Bariatric surgeon Dr Igor Troickis has highlighted that many people ignore these early warning signs, mistaking them for trivial health issues. In the UK, coronary heart disease is responsible for the deaths of one in eight men and one in 14 women, claiming around 26,000 lives annually among those under 75.
Dr Troickis from Weight Loss Riga stressed the critical nature of spotting these subtle symptoms early to avoid serious complications. "Heart disease often creeps up silently," he said. "Many individuals experience mild symptoms that they dismiss as stress or ageing. However, these signs are crucial indicators that something is wrong."
Chest discomfort
Chest discomfort is one of the most common early signs of heart trouble, reports the Express. Dr Troickis said: "Chest pain or discomfort, known as angina, can feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the centre of the chest. It might come and go, lasting a few minutes at a time. This symptom should never be ignored, especially if it occurs during physical activity or stress."
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Shortness of breath
Another significant warning sign is shortness of breath. "If you find yourself struggling to catch your breath during routine activities or while at rest, it could be a sign that your heart isn't pumping efficiently," explained Dr Troickis. "This symptom is often overlooked but can be a critical indicator of underlying heart problems."
Unusual fatigue
Dr Troickis also highlighted the significance of unusual fatigue. He continued: "Persistent, unexplained fatigue can signal heart disease. "If you're constantly feeling tired despite getting enough rest, it's time to consult a doctor."
Swelling in legs, ankles or feet
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet is another symptom to watch for. "Oedema, or swelling, can indicate that your heart is struggling to pump blood effectively," Dr Troickis said. "It's often accompanied by weight gain and should be evaluated promptly."
Heart palpitations
Heart palpitations, or a racing or irregular heartbeat, can be an early warning sign. Dr Troickis said: "While palpitations can result from anxiety or caffeine, frequent occurrences warrant medical attention. Pain in other parts of the body."
Pain in other parts of the body
Finally, Dr Troickis pointed out that pain in other parts of the body "can be related to heart disease." "Pain radiating to the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back, especially on the left side, should raise immediate concern," he said. If you experience any signs you should speak to your GP. He added: "Recognising these early signs and seeking medical advice promptly can make a significant difference.
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Early detection and treatment are vital in preventing the progression of heart disease. Dr Troickis pointed out that certain sectors are more prone to heart disease, such as individuals with a family precedent of heart issues, smokers, those struggling with high blood pressure or elevated levels of cholesterol, diabetics, and individuals dealing with obesity.
He added: "Obesity is a significant risk factor. Excess body weight puts extra strain on the heart, increases blood pressure, and raises cholesterol levels, all of which contribute to the development of heart disease."
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