An essential organ in the human body is the heart. However, early warnings of heart-related problems are often ignored. It is important to act fast when it comes to heart health. This can mean the difference between managing your condition and dealing with life-threatening emergencies. For a healthy, happy heart, you need to know the signs that indicate it’s time to see a specialist. In this article, you will learn the important signs that signal it’s time for a visit to Denver.
Chest Pains Or Discomfort
Chest discomfort is one of the most alarming and common symptoms of heart problems. The cause of chest discomfort is not always heart-related. However, it should not be ignored. If you feel tightness, pressure, or burning in your chest, this may indicate a heart disorder like angina.
The pain can spread to other parts like the back, neck or jaw. If the chest pain is persistent or frequent, and lasts for more than 10 minutes, then you should see a physician.
Shortness Of Breath
If you feel short of breath when doing things that used to be easy, or even resting, this could indicate heart disease. Dyspnea or shortness of breathing can indicate heart muscle weakness, congestive cardiac failure, or both. Fluid can build-up in the lungs as the heart fails to pump the blood effectively.
This is of particular concern if shortness of breath is accompanied by chest discomfort or fatigue. Schedule an immediate appointment to see a Denver heart doctor if any of these signs or symptoms occur.
Irregular Heartbeats
The arrhythmia (an irregular or rapid pulse) can also be a sign that the heart isn’t working correctly. Many people experience harmless palpitations. However, if the irregular heartbeats are persistent or frequent, they could be a sign of a more serious condition, like atrial Fibrillation (AFIB) or other arrhythmias, which can increase your risk of heart failure and stroke.
If you notice that your heart is racing or skipping beats without any apparent cause or you are feeling lightheaded, consult a cardiologist right away.
Swelling At The Ankles And Feet
A swelling in the lower legs, also known as edema, can indicate a heart that isn’t working as well as it ought to. Blood can build up in the veins due to a weakening of the heart. Fluids will accumulate when this happens.
This swelling often occurs on the legs, ankles or feet. Shortness-of-breath or weight gain may also accompany this swelling. It’s important to check with a physician to find out if your heart may be the source of edema.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a silent problem that presents without symptoms. However, it increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and many other serious problems. If you are diagnosed with hypertension or if your readings consistently exceed the normal range, then you should see a physician.
Even if hypertension is under control, it can still damage the heart and blood vessels over time. A cardiologist may help you to control your blood tension through lifestyle modifications and medication, if required, in order to reduce your chances of developing heart-related issues.
Light-headedness Or Dizziness
Sometimes, feeling dizzy or lightheaded is normal. This may be the result of dehydration. A sudden, unexplained feeling of dizziness or light-headedness could indicate that you have a cardiac problem. A problem with your heart’s rhythm (arrhythmias), poor blood flow, or low pressure can cause these symptoms.
If you’re frequently dizzy or have fainted with no obvious cause in sight, it would be a wise idea to visit a cardiologist to rule out any underlying heart condition.
Family History Of Heart Disease
Your risk of developing heart problems increases if the disease runs in your blood. Even if your symptoms aren’t present, you should visit a cardiologist for regular checks. Early detection and treatment of risk factors, such as high blood cholesterol or high blood pressure, can prevent future complications. A Denver cardiologist can assess the risk of your heart, run necessary tests, develop an action plan and keep it healthy.
Conclusion
Maintaining your heart’s health is crucial to your overall well-being. If you have any of the symptoms listed above–such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or an irregular heartbeat, it is vital that you schedule an immediate appointment with a Denver cardiologist. Early intervention is important to prevent complications. It can also save lives. Don’t let symptoms worsen. Instead, trust your intuition and seek out professional advice. This will keep your heart healthy for years to come.