Here are five signs of heart trouble you need to get checked out:
1. Chest Pain
“Chest pain is never normal,” says Dr. Lawrence Phillips, a comprehensive cardiologist at NYU Langone Cardiology Associates.
And by that, he means any kind of chest discomfort, including the “elephant sitting on my chest” feeling, but also sharp pains, a burning sensation, or a tugging feeling in the chest, all of which could be your heart’s way of saying it is not getting enough oxygen.
“If it’s a new symptom, have it checked out,” says Dr. Phillips.
Chest pain, also known as angina, can signal coronary artery disease that results from atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup, in the arteries that supply the heart. This can be treated with medication, angioplasty with stenting, or surgery.
If you are experiencing symptoms, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor.
2. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath is best explained as a change in your normal breathing pattern. Is it hard to take a deep breath?
Do you get winded more easily during exercise or walking up a flight of stairs? When you lie down, do you have trouble breathing, or do you wake up in the middle of night trying to catch your breath?
These are all signs that your heart might not be working efficiently, says Dr. Phillips.
Shortness of breath can be related to many different heart conditions, such as mitral valve disease, aortic valve disease, heart attack, and heart failure.
It is important to note, Dr. Phillips says, that heart disease symptoms for women can vary from those experienced by men. “Women are more likely to have shortness of breath and nausea,” says Dr. Phillips.
3. Heart Palpitations
If you feel your heart racing for longer than seems normal, that is worthy of a call to your doctor …
