Heart disease is a general term for conditions that affect your heart. There are many different types of heart disease, with a variety of symptoms. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have mild or severe symptoms.
Here are some of the common symptoms of heart disease:
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina):This is the most common symptom of heart disease. The pain or discomfort can feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or burning. It can occur in the chest, but may also radiate to the shoulders, arms, back, jaw, or teeth. Angina pain is often brought on by exertion or stress and relieved by rest or medication.
- Shortness of breath: This can occur at rest or with activity. It can feel like you can't catch your breath, or like you're suffocating.
- Shortness of breath when lying down: This can be a sign of heart failure, a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively.
- Fatigue: This can be a general feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease.
- Palpitations: This is a feeling of fluttering or racing in your chest. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, and heart disease.
- Swelling in your legs and ankles: This can be a sign of heart failure, a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively.
- Lightheadedness or dizziness: This can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart disease.
- Pain in your neck, jaw, upper belly, or back: This can be a sign of a heart attack.
- Nausea or vomiting: This can be a sign of a heart attack.
- Sudden sweating: This can be a sign of a heart attack.
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease can help improve your quality of life and reduce your risk of complications.