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Heart Pain? Surgeon Reveals Top Warning Signs
20 Feb
Summary
- Chest pain or pressure, especially with activity, is a major red flag.
- Progressive shortness of breath during activity signals potential heart issues.
- Unusual fatigue and sudden drop in exercise tolerance warrant medical attention.
A prominent heart surgeon has issued a warning about key signs of heart disease, emphasizing the importance of heeding the body's warning systems. The most significant red flag identified is chest pain or pressure, especially when it occurs with activity and subsides with rest, indicating a potential lack of oxygen to the heart. This symptom, known as angina, is often linked to coronary artery disease.
Further signs to monitor include progressive shortness of breath during physical exertion, which should not be dismissed as poor fitness. Unusual fatigue and a sudden decrease in exercise tolerance, such as struggling with everyday tasks, are also critical indicators. Health organizations underscore that heart disease, particularly coronary heart disease, remains a major cause of heart attacks and hospitalizations in the UK, highlighting the need for public awareness.
Despite the prevalence of heart disease, surveys indicate a significant portion of adults lack confidence in recognizing heart attack signs. Many would also hesitate to call emergency services even when experiencing chest pain. The surgeon stresses that responding to these internal warning systems promptly can save lives, underscoring the critical role of early detection and immediate medical care.
