Unusual Signs of Heart Disease
Leading up to Valentine’s Day, it’s hard to escape heart-shaped gifts and candies while out shopping. And sure, the holiday makes us think about the people we love most—but when was the last time you thought about your physical heart?
People might say you’re only as young as you feel, but a lot of us may be overestimating how healthy we are. For example, in a 2023 survey, 81% of American men reported living a healthy lifestyle, yet 44% skipped their annual physicals.
We also overestimate our heart health. Around 75% of Americans have hearts that are five to eight years “older” than their biological age, according to the CDC.
Knowing that, it’s important to “listen” to our bodies a little bit better, and be on the lookout for unusual warning signs of heart disease, including:
Dizziness.
You might associate dizziness with conditions like vertigo, migraines and anxiety, but abnormal heart rhythms also can cause lightheadedness. If you feel dizzy in addition to having a racing heart or shortness of breath, it’s important to talk to a doctor right away.
Fatigue.
We’re all tired now and then, but if you’re experiencing tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest or worsens with physical activity, your heart could be having a hard time pumping blood. Fatigue, especially when combined with shortness of breath and/or chest pain, could be a sign of heart disease, arrhythmias or other conditions.
Jaw pain.
If you’re having jaw pain, it might not be your chompers causing it. Problems with your heart can cause chest pain to radiate up to your face. However, this symptom is more common in women. Up to 40% of female heart attack patients report having orofacial pain in addition to more common symptoms like chest tightness.
Poor sleep quality.
Not only does poor sleep quality and inadequate rest increase heart attack risk by over 50%, but poor sleep could be an indication that your heart is already in trouble. It’s a vicious cycle where bad sleep can lead to high blood pressure, inflammation and stress—and then those conditions disrupt your sleep.
Skin changes.
If your feet and ankles are swelling, it might not be because of that long walk. Swelling, as well as blue or purple discoloration or waxy growths, can indicate you have high cholesterol levels or blockages in your bloodstream.
While these and other warning signs are important to know, it’s important to be proactive about your heart health now. Some ways to stay healthy are to:
Eat healthily.
Trade high-fat and processed foods for diets rich in oily fish, vegetables, fruit, whole grains and nuts.
Stay physically active.
You should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. This should include both cardiovascular and strength training exercises.
Stay up-to-date with doctor’s visits.
Be sure to schedule your annual visits and talk to your provider about your heart disease risks. It’s also wise to let them know about your family health history.
Heart Risk Assessment
Are you concerned about your heart health and your risks for heart disease? Take our assessment to determine your heart’s “real age.”
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