10 Warning Signs of Heart Disease You Should Never Ignore

Chest discomfort is not always dramatic

Textbook crushing chest pain happens in a minority of cases. Many patients describe a heaviness, tightness or burning that comes with exertion and eases with rest. If a walk up the stairs reliably brings on discomfort, that pattern matters more than its intensity.

Breathlessness and unusual fatigue

Feeling winded after activities that used to be easy, or waking at night short of breath, can indicate the heart is struggling to pump efficiently. Women in particular often report fatigue rather than pain.

Swelling, palpitations and dizziness

Ankle swelling by evening, a racing or irregular heartbeat, and light-headedness on standing are all worth a proper assessment with an ECG and echocardiogram.

The takeaway

If you have two or more of these signs, book a cardiology consultation. An ECG takes five minutes and can change the course of your life.