Could you have heart disease and not even realize it? The answer might surprise you. While many people associate heart disease with obvious warning signs like chest pain, some early indicators are much less recognizable.
What are the early signs of heart disease?
Heart disease, a group of conditions affecting heart function, is the leading cause of death in the United States. Nearly half of all American adults have at least one type of heart disease, yet many don’t recognize the symptoms until a serious event, like a heart attack, occurs.
“One of the biggest misconceptions related to heart disease are the symptoms – or lack thereof – it causes,” says Laura Divoky, MD, non-invasive cardiologist with Georgia Heart Institute. “The early stages of heart disease are often silent, meaning it doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms, and, if it does, the symptoms are often attributed to something else entirely.”
That’s why understanding heart problem signs—even the unexpected ones—is critical.
“We encourage each person to really pay attention to their overall health and how they’re feeling, noting any changes or abnormalities – big or small,” notes Dr. Divoky. “After all, you know yourself and health best, you’ll be able to pick up on changes earlier than anyone else.”
5 Unexpected Symptoms of Heart Disease
1. Difficulty sleeping
Insomnia or trouble staying asleep may be linked to heart disease. If you typically have no trouble falling asleep but suddenly find yourself experiencing restless nights, it could be a sign that your heart isn’t functioning efficiently.
2. Dizziness or lightheadedness
Feeling lightheaded, especially without an obvious cause like standing up too quickly, can indicate that your heart is struggling to pump blood effectively. This symptom can be related to heart rhythm issues, low blood pressure, or restricted blood flow—all potential signs of heart disease.
3. Long-lasting fatigue
Extreme exhaustion, even after getting a full night’s sleep, may indicate that your heart is working harder than it should. If you experience persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, it’s important to speak with your doctor.
4. Shortness of breath
Mild shortness of breath after physical activity is normal, but experiencing difficulty breathing while at rest is a red flag. This could signal a weakened heart or an impending heart attack. Pay attention to whether this symptom persists or worsens.
5. Swelling in your legs or ankles
When your heart isn’t pumping efficiently, blood can pool in your lower extremities, leading to noticeable swelling in your feet, ankles, or legs. This fluid retention could indicate heart failure or other cardiovascular conditions that require medical evaluation.
Advanced Heart Care at Georgia Heart Institute
At Georgia Heart Institute we are committed to prevention, early detection, and advanced treatment for all types of heart disease. As the state’s most forward-thinking heart and vascular program, our team of experienced cardiologists and heart specialists provides comprehensive care, from routine screenings to leading-edge treatments for complex conditions.