Heart disease is often associated with dramatic symptoms like crushing chest pain or sudden shortness of breath, but many warning signs can be much subtler and easily overlooked. These “silent symptoms” can sometimes point to serious underlying heart issues, and recognising them early could save your life.
Here are some of the lesser-known signs of heart disease to watch for and why you shouldn’t ignore them.
1. Jaw, Neck, or Shoulder Pain
You might not think jaw or neck pain has anything to do with your heart, but it can be a red flag, especially for women. This discomfort may not feel like pain in the traditional sense but rather a dull ache or pressure.
Why it matters:
Such pain occurs when the nerves in the heart share pathways with those in the jaw or neck, a phenomenon known as referred pain. It’s especially important to pay attention to this symptom if it occurs during physical activity or is accompanied by chest discomfort.
What to do:
Don’t brush it off as muscle tension or stress—seek medical advice to rule out heart-related causes.
2. Nausea or Indigestion
Feeling nauseated or experiencing what feels like indigestion might seem like a digestive issue, but it can sometimes be a sign of a heart attack.
Why it matters:
These symptoms are particularly common in women and can be mistaken for a stomach bug or acid reflux. They’re caused by the heart struggling to pump blood effectively, which can trigger sensations of discomfort in the upper abdomen.
What to do:
If nausea or indigestion appears suddenly, especially alongside fatigue, sweating, or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.
3. Fatigue
We all feel tired now and then, but extreme or unexplained fatigue could be your heart sending a distress signal.
Why it matters:
When your heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently, your body prioritises blood flow to vital organs, leaving you feeling drained. Persistent fatigue is often reported by people with coronary artery disease or heart failure.
What to do:
If your exhaustion is unrelenting, worsens over time, or occurs with other symptoms like shortness of breath or dizziness, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.
4. Irregular Heartbeat
Feeling like your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or racing for no apparent reason? These irregularities, known as arrhythmias, may seem harmless but can signal a more serious problem.
Why it matters:
While occasional palpitations can be triggered by stress, caffeine, or dehydration, persistent or frequent irregular heartbeats can indicate conditions like atrial fibrillation or other cardiac issues that increase your risk of stroke or heart failure.
What to do:
Keep track of when these episodes occur and how long they last, then consult a cardiologist for a proper evaluation.
5. Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet
Swollen feet or ankles might seem like a minor annoyance, but it could signal a buildup of fluid caused by heart failure.
Why it matters:
When the heart can’t pump blood effectively, blood can back up in the veins, causing fluid to accumulate in the lower extremities. This is known as oedema.
What to do:
If swelling persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, see your doctor promptly.
6. Shortness of Breath During Routine Activities
Feeling winded after climbing stairs or walking short distances can be a sign of more than just being out of shape.
Why it matters:
Shortness of breath, especially during activities that used to feel easy, could indicate a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream caused by heart problems like heart failure or valve disease.
What to do:
If you notice a sudden or gradual decline in your ability to perform everyday tasks without losing your breath, talk to a healthcare professional.
7. Cold Sweats
Breaking out in a sudden, clammy sweat without an obvious reason like heat or exercise can be alarming—and for good reason.
Why it matters:
Cold sweats can occur when your body is in distress, such as during a heart attack. It’s your nervous system reacting to reduced blood flow to vital organs.
What to do:
If cold sweats happen alongside other symptoms like chest discomfort or nausea, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
8. Sleep Apnoea
Sleep apnoea—a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep—is not just a sleep issue; it can also be linked to heart disease.
Why it matters:
Sleep apnea can lead to low oxygen levels, which strain the heart and increase the risk of high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
What to do:
If you snore loudly or wake up feeling unrefreshed, talk to your doctor about getting tested for sleep apnoea.
Don’t Ignore the Subtle Signs, Book A Consult Now
Heart disease doesn’t always announce itself with dramatic symptoms like chest pain. Subtle signs like jaw discomfort, nausea, or fatigue can be just as important to recognise.
If you notice any of these symptoms—especially if they’re new, persistent, or occur during physical activity—don’t hesitate to consult a cardiologist. At Forte Cardiology Clinic, we’re here to help you identify risks, diagnose potential issues, and develop a plan for your heart health.
Your heart works hard for you every day. Pay attention to what it’s telling you.