What Are the Early Warning Signs of Poor Cardiovascular Health?
Early warning signs of poor cardiovascular health may include symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet. Chest pain, also known as angina, is one of the most common indicators of heart problems and occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood. This discomfort may feel like pressure, tightness, or squeezing in the chest and can radiate to the arms, neck, or jaw. Shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity or while lying down, is another warning sign that the heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently, potentially indicating heart failure or other cardiovascular issues.
Other early signs of poor cardiovascular health include irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), persistent fatigue, and dizziness. Fatigue, especially when it occurs without an obvious cause, may indicate that the heart is not functioning properly and that the body’s tissues aren’t receiving enough oxygen. Swelling in the lower extremities, known as edema, is a common sign of heart failure, as fluid builds up in the body when the heart cannot pump effectively. Recognizing these early warning signs and seeking medical attention promptly can help prevent more serious cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks or strokes.
