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According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 78% of women missed early signs of heart disease, even though symptoms occurred repeatedly over weeks or months. Additionally, the American Heart Association reports that cardiovascular disease (CVD) caused 941,652 deaths in the United States in 2022 alone.
These numbers reveal a troubling truth: many people ignore the early signs of heart disease, and as a result, they face more severe complications or even death.
Heart disease often begins silently. However, it sends subtle warnings that many people overlook. These early signs of heart disease include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and dizziness. While these symptoms may seem minor, they often signal underlying cardiovascular issues. Let’s explore three key symptoms in more detail.
Fatigue is one of the most common early signs. It may feel like extreme tiredness after simple tasks. Persistent fatigue may indicate that your heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently. You might feel exhausted after climbing stairs or walking short distances. This symptom often appears weeks before a heart attack. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, many women reported feeling unusually tired before their cardiac event. According to Dr. Nieca Goldberg, a cardiologist and spokesperson for the American Heart Association, “Women especially may experience fatigue and shortness of breath rather than chest pain during a heart attack.” Because fatigue is common, people often ignore it. However, when combined with other symptoms, it becomes a red flag.
Difficulty breathing during rest or mild activity can signal heart trouble. This occurs when fluid builds up in the lungs due to poor heart function. You may feel like you can’t catch your breath or need to sit upright to breathe. This symptom often accompanies fatigue and chest discomfort. Chest discomfort may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness. Unlike sharp pain, this sensation often builds gradually. Dizziness or lightheadedness may result from reduced blood flow to the brain. These signs, although subtle, demand attention. If you notice this change, consult a doctor immediately.
Unlike sharp pain, heart-related chest discomfort feels like pressure or heaviness. It may spread to the arms, neck, or jaw. This symptom often comes and goes. People may mistake it for indigestion or muscle strain. However, it’s one of the most critical early signs of heart disease. If you experience this sensation, especially during activity, seek medical help. Early diagnosis can prevent a heart attack.
To diagnose the early signs of heart disease, regular physical exams and targeted screenings are essential. Annual checkups help detect risk factors before symptoms appear. During these visits, doctors assess key metrics that reveal your heart’s health. These include blood pressure, heart rate, cholesterol levels, body weight, and blood sugar. Knowing your numbers empowers you to take preventive action.
Healthy blood pressure should be below 120/80 mm Hg. Readings between 120–129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic are considered elevated. Stage 1 hypertension begins at 130/80 mm Hg, and Stage 2 starts at 140/90 mm Hg or higher. Elevated blood pressure increases your risk of stroke and heart attack
A normal resting heart rate ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. Athletes may have lower rates, around 40–60 bpm, which is also healthy. A consistently high heart rate may signal stress, poor fitness, or underlying heart issues.
Cholesterol is measured through a lipid panel. According to the 2023 Canadian Lipid Guidelines, ideal levels are:
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on your heart. Aim for a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9. Excess weight contributes to high blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol. Losing just 5–10% of your body weight can significantly improve heart health.
Fasting blood glucose should be below 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L). Higher levels may indicate prediabetes or diabetes, which are major heart disease risk factors.
Regular screenings help catch problems early. Experts recommend checking blood pressure at least once a year, cholesterol every 4–6 years (or more often if at risk), and glucose annually. Dr. Howard LeWine from Harvard Health emphasizes, “These best predict cardiovascular disease risks, including heart disease, heart attack, and stroke”.
Many people dismiss these symptoms as stress, aging, or fatigue. However, ignoring them can be dangerous. A retrospective study published in Circulation found that early heart attack signs were missed in 78% of women. This oversight often leads to delayed treatment and worsened outcomes.
Additionally, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in North America. In 2023, cardiovascular disease claimed 919,032 lives in the United States. Despite this, people continue to underestimate the risks. They often wait until symptoms become severe, such as intense chest pain or collapse. By then, damage may already be irreversible.
Cultural and gender biases also play a role. Historically, heart disease research focused more on men. As a result, women’s symptoms were misunderstood or dismissed. Yves Savoie, CEO of Heart & Stroke, stated, “Women’s hearts are still misunderstood. We are decades behind in our knowledge of the differences between men’s and women’s hearts.” This gap in understanding contributes to missed diagnoses and preventable deaths.
Recognizing the early signs of heart disease can lead to timely intervention. When people act early, they improve their chances of recovery. For example, treating high blood pressure or cholesterol early can prevent artery damage. Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or exercising, also become more effective when started early.
Moreover, early detection allows doctors to prescribe medications that slow disease progression. Beta-blockers, statins, and ACE inhibitors can protect the heart. Regular checkups and screenings help identify risks before symptoms appear. Therefore, awareness and action go hand in hand.
Preventing heart disease starts with lifestyle changes. First, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and limit salt and sugar. These steps help control blood pressure and cholesterol.
Second, exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Walking, swimming, and cycling improve heart health. Physical activity also reduces stress, which contributes to heart disease.
Third, quit smoking. Tobacco damages blood vessels and increases plaque buildup. According to the CDC, smoking remains a major risk factor for heart disease. Quitting improves circulation and lowers your risk of heart attack.
Fourth, manage stress. Chronic stress raises blood pressure and heart rate. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. These habits promote emotional and physical well-being.
Finally, get regular checkups. Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. Early detection allows for timely treatment. Talk to your doctor about your family history and risk factors. Together, you can create a prevention plan.
While heart disease cannot be fully cured, early detection makes it manageable. Doctors can slow its progression and prevent complications. Medications, lifestyle changes, and procedures like angioplasty restore blood flow and improve heart function.
In some cases, people reverse damage through aggressive treatment. For example, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure reduces plaque buildup. Exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation. With consistent care, many patients live long, healthy lives.
Therefore, recognizing the early signs of heart disease is crucial. It empowers you to take control of your health. Don’t wait for severe symptoms. Listen to your body, seek help, and make changes today.
