10 Warning Signs Your Heart Might Be in Trouble

Your heart is one of the most vital organs in your body, but heart disease often develops quietly, with symptoms that are easy to miss or misinterpret. Recognizing the early signs of heart disease can make a life-saving difference.

As one of the best cardiologist doctor in Max Hospital Saket I often see patients who could have benefited from earlier diagnosis and intervention. Here's what you should watch out for.

1. Unusual Fatigue
Persistent, unexplained fatigue—especially after minimal exertion—could signal that your heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently. This is more common in women and may be an early indicator of coronary artery disease.

2. Chest Discomfort
Chest pain doesn’t always mean a sharp, crushing sensation. It may feel like pressure, fullness, squeezing, or burning. If you feel chest discomfort during rest or exertion, seek immediate medical advice.

3. Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath while lying down, walking, or climbing stairs can be an early symptom of heart failure or a blocked artery. It shouldn’t be ignored, especially if it’s getting progressively worse.

4. Irregular Heartbeat
Occasional skipped beats or palpitations can be harmless, but frequent or sustained irregular rhythms may signal arrhythmias or atrial fibrillation, both of which increase the risk of stroke.

5. Swelling in Feet, Ankles, or Legs
Fluid buildup in the lower extremities can occur when the heart isn't pumping properly. This may be an early sign of congestive heart failure.

6. Dizziness or Fainting Spells
These symptoms may indicate an underlying cardiac arrhythmia or a significant drop in blood pressure due to poor heart function.

7. Excessive Sweating (Especially Cold Sweats)
Breaking into a cold sweat, particularly during rest or with chest pain, can be a warning sign of an impending heart attack.

8. Persistent Cough or Wheezing
A chronic cough or wheezing—especially if it produces pink, frothy mucus—may be linked to lung fluid accumulation from heart failure.

9. Indigestion or Nausea
Sometimes, heart attacks can mimic gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, nausea, or stomach pain. This is especially common in women.

10. Pain in the Neck, Jaw, or Left Arm
Pain radiating to the neck, jaw, shoulder, or arm, particularly on the left side, can be a classic heart attack symptom. Don’t ignore it, even if it’s mild.

Conclusion :-
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms—especially in combination or with a family history of heart disease—it's time to consult a specialist. Timely evaluation can prevent complications and may even save your life. Dr. Rajiv Aggarwal is the best cardiologist at Max Hospital, Saket, with over thirty years of experience diagnosing and treating complex heart conditions.