Heart disease remains a common and serious health condition among adults, yet many people don’t recognize the symptoms early. While chest pain is the most known sign, the truth is that early warning signs of heart disease can be much more subtle especially in older adults.
Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent serious complications and may even save your life.
If you experience any of these warning signs, it may be time to become a patient at Sage Health and speak with a primary care provider who understands your needs.
Heart disease develops when the heart or blood vessels are damaged or weakened. The most common cause is plaque buildup in the arteries known as atherosclerosis which reduces blood flow to the heart.
Common causes include:
Over time, these factors place strain on the heart and increase the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, or heart failure.
Many early signs of heart disease appear gradually. If you notice more than one of these symptoms, it’s important to take them seriously and consult a doctor.
A feeling of pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the chest may be a sign of reduced blood flow to the heart.
It may come and go especially during activity and is often described as a squeezing or “band-like” sensation.
Struggling to catch your breath during simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs can indicate the heart isn’t pumping efficiently.
Heart-related pain doesn’t always stay in the chest. It can spread to:
These symptoms often appear in women more than men.
Unexplained exhaustion even after resting can be an early sign that the heart is not providing enough oxygen to the body.
Swelling in the lower legs may signal heart failure, where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, causing fluid buildup.
Some people mistake heart symptoms for stomach issues. Persistent nausea paired with chest pressure should not be ignored.
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to become a patient at Sage Health and get the personalized care you deserve.
Men often experience heart disease earlier in life than women, and their symptoms can be more classic or “textbook.”
Even mild symptoms should not be dismissed. Early detection is key to preventing heart attacks.
If you’re noticing these patterns, now is the time to become a patient at Sage Health and speak with a primary care provider.
Women often experience more subtle symptoms, making early signs harder to recognize. Women are also more likely to experience symptoms outside the chest.
Because symptoms may be less obvious, many women delay seeking help, increasing risk.
If any of these symptoms resonate, consider taking action early and become a patient at Sage Health for a full evaluation.
Certain factors increase your chances of developing heart disease:
Even one of these risk factors can affect your heart over time.
The good news: many forms of heart disease are preventable.
Come visit one of Sage Health’s primary care clinics to experience the benefits of being a Sage Health patient.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
Heart disease is easier to treat when found early. Don’t wait.
Early signs may include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, jaw or arm pain, or swelling in the legs.
Yes. Many people describe heart-related discomfort as burning, pressure, or stomach pain that feels like indigestion.
Yes. Men often experience chest pain, while women more commonly have fatigue, nausea, jaw pain, or back discomfort.
If you notice any new or unexplained symptoms related to your chest, breathing, or energy levels, schedule a visit promptly. Early action is critical.
Sources:
