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Young Heart Failure: Ignoring Deadly Symptoms
3 Feb
Summary
- Many dismiss heart failure symptoms as signs of aging.
- Less than 10% of Americans see a cardiologist for such symptoms.
- A young man's life was saved by a heart-assist device.
Many Americans, particularly younger ones, are unaware of heart failure symptoms, often mistaking them for signs of aging or everyday stress. A survey indicates that less than 10% of people experiencing symptoms like irregular heartbeat, fatigue, and bloating would seek specialist care.
Alex Balmes, a 32-year-old from Orlando, Florida, initially dismissed his symptoms as anxiety until they worsened significantly. His condition progressed to organ failure, necessitating an emergency room visit and the implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD).
This implantable pump now supports Balmes' blood circulation, serving as a temporary measure while he awaits a heart transplant. His experience underscores the importance of medical attention for persistent symptoms, even when they seem unlikely for a young person.
Risk factors for heart failure in young adults include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and genetic predispositions. Cardiologists emphasize that ignoring persistent symptoms that disrupt daily life can have severe consequences, necessitating prompt medical evaluation.
