Recognize the Symptoms of Heart Disease Before It's Too Late

This may sound sudden, but heart disease often appears in ways that are just as unexpected.

Many people are unaware they have heart disease until symptoms arise. But does heart disease really strike without warning?

What is heart disease?

Heart disease is a general term for a group of conditions that affect the structure and function of the heart.

These conditions include:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD): narrowing of the blood vessels due to atherosclerosis (fat buildup).
• Arrhythmia: irregular heartbeat.
• Congenital heart defects: structural issues present at birth.
• Cardiomyopathy: disease of the heart muscle.
• Heart valve disease: disorders that disrupt the proper flow of blood within the heart.

Many forms of heart disease can be prevented or managed through a healthy lifestyle and early detection.

Common symptoms of heart disease

1. Chest pain (angina)

Chest pain is the most common symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart. It may feel like pressure, tightness, or a burning sensation in the chest, neck, or upper abdomen.

The intensity can range from mild to severe and doesn’t always reflect the severity of the disease.

2. Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

This occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, resulting in fluid accumulation in the lungs. It can happen during activity, at rest, or even while lying flat.

3. Persistent cough

A chronic cough, especially when accompanied by pink or bloody mucus, may signal fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart failure.

4. Swelling in the legs or ankles (edema)

This occurs when blood flow slows down, causing fluid to accumulate in the lower parts of the body.

5. Fainting (syncope)

Blocked blood vessels (often due to cholesterol plaques) can reduce blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of a heart attack.

6. Extreme fatigue

Unusual tiredness that interferes with daily activities can be an early sign of heart problems, especially in women.

7. Irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

A heart that beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly may indicate an arrhythmia—a condition that requires medical evaluation.

Tips to prevent heart disease

Heart disease can often be prevented through the following lifestyle changes:

1. Quit smoking

Smoking damages the heart and blood vessels. Quitting smoking or avoiding secondhand smoke is crucial for heart health.

2. Exercise regularly

Aim for 30–60 minutes of physical activity per day. Exercise helps lower blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, and boost heart health.

3. Eat a balanced diet

A diet rich in balanced nutrition is essential for maintaining heart health.

Choose foods that are low in saturated fats and sugar, and high in fiber, such as:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Lean meats and fish
• Legumes
• Low-fat dairy products
• Healthy oils like olive oil and avocado

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes—all of which are risk factors for heart disease.

5. Get enough sleep

Sleeping 7–8 hours per night helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

6. Manage stress

Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and lead to unhealthy habits like overeating or smoking. Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or regular physical activity, to manage stress.

7. Get regular health checkups

Routine screenings can help detect risk factors early:

• Blood pressure: check at least every two years, or more often if you have risk factors.
• Cholesterol (lipid profile): start screening between the ages of 9–11, then every five years. Adults aged 45–65 should be screened every 1–2 years, and annually thereafter after age 65.
• Blood sugar: start at age 45 and screen every three years, or more often if you're at risk for diabetes.

Heart disease may strike suddenly, but that doesn’t mean it comes without warning. Recognizing the symptoms and taking preventive action early on is essential to protect yourself from life-threatening conditions.

If you experience any concerning symptoms, consult a doctor immediately. Prevention is always better than a cure.

With advanced EKG and treadmill facilities, GWS Medika Blok M Clinic, a health clinic in South Jakarta, can help you detect heart problems early. Schedule your complete checkup today at this trusted clinic in Jakarta.