It May Be Time to See a Heart Specialist
Most people expect heart problems to feel dramatic… sudden chest pain or a medical emergency. But many heart conditions begin with small warning signs that are easy to brush off or explain away.
You may think:
– “I’m just getting older.”
– “I’m out of shape.”
– “I’ve just been tired lately.”
But sometimes, your heart may be trying to tell you something.
COMMON WARNING SIGNS OF HEART DISEASE
Not every symptom means you have heart disease. But if you notice any of these signs, especially if they continue or worsen, it may be time to talk with a heart specialist.
1. Shortness of Breath
Do everyday activities leave you more winded than usual?
If walking uphill, climbing stairs, carrying groceries or doing simple chores suddenly feels harder, your heart may not be pumping as well as it should.
2. Chest Pressure or Discomfort
Heart-related chest pain is not always sharp or severe. Some people describe it as:
- Pressure
- Tightness
- Heaviness
- Burning, like indigestion
- Fullness
It may come and go, especially during activity.
3. Unusual Fatigue
Feeling tired all the time can have many causes, but extreme fatigue may also be linked to heart problems. If you feel exhausted doing things that never used to wear you out, don’t ignore it.
4. Swelling in the Legs or Feet
Swelling in the lower legs, ankles or feet may happen when the heart struggles to move blood effectively through the body.
5. Dizziness or Fainting
Feeling lightheaded, dizzy or faint can sometimes signal problems with blood flow or heart rhythm.
KNOW YOUR RISK FACTORS
Some people are more likely to develop heart disease than others. Risk factors include:
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Family history of heart disease
If you have one or more of these risk factors, even if you feel fine, regular checkups with your primary care doctor are important so that problems can be detected and treated early.
DON’T WAIT TO GET ANSWERS
Most importantly, if something doesn’t feel right, listen to your body. It may be time to schedule a visit with a heart specialist. The early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease can make a big difference.
The good news is that advanced heart care is close to home. With an expert team of cardiac specialists and leading-edge facilities and technology, The Heart and Vascular Institute at Pikeville Medical Center has comprehensive capabilities and is nationally recognized for the care it provides. They provide that care with one focus… YOU.
To learn more about the Heart and Vascular Institute of Eastern Kentucky, its providers and clinic locations in Pikeville, Prestonsburg, South Williamson, Whitesburg and Grundy, click here. To schedule a consultation, call (606) 430-2201.