Doctor says 'less well-known' symptom of heart disease 'worsens through day'

Heart disease remains a significant health concern, affecting millions globally. More than 7.6 million people in the UK live with heart or circulatory diseases, and it’s estimated that one in 12 people worldwide are impacted. Understanding the symptoms and taking preventative measures are crucial for mitigating risk.

Symptoms of Heart Disease

Chest pain is the most widely recognised symptom of heart disease, with 80% of those surveyed identifying it. This pain can manifest as pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness, and requires immediate medical attention – dialing 999 is essential. Shortness of breath is also a common indicator, correctly identified by 77% of respondents, occurring when the heart struggles to pump enough blood, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs.

Irregular heart rhythms were recognised as a symptom by 70% of people surveyed, though Dr. Bhavini Shah notes this may not always indicate a serious condition, it warrants medical evaluation. Extreme fatigue, acknowledged by 66% of respondents, can also be a sign, making everyday activities exhausting.

Did You Know? Heart disease can often be caused by fatty deposits in the arteries, potentially leading to a higher risk of blood clots and damage to vital organs like the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes.

A less well-known symptom is leg swelling, medically termed oedema. This occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissue and can worsen throughout the day. Notably, less than half (46%) of those surveyed were aware of this connection.

How to Reduce Your Risk

Eat Healthily

Reducing fat intake is an effective strategy for lowering the risk of coronary heart disease, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. The NHS recommends a high-fibre, low-fat diet including at least five servings of fruit and vegetables, alongside whole grains like oats, rye, and brown rice. Limiting salt intake to no more than 6g per day and avoiding saturated fats is also advised.

Get Active

Staying active is a key preventative measure, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease by up to 35%, according to the British Heart Foundation. Regular physical activity helps regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol. A minimum of 150 minutes of exercise per week is recommended, choosing activities you enjoy to promote consistency.

Expert Insight: recognising the diverse range of heart disease symptoms, from commonly known chest pain to the less obvious leg swelling, is crucial for early detection, and intervention. Proactive lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise, can significantly reduce individual risk.

Quit Smoking

According to the charity Action on Smoking and Health, smoking damages the lining of arteries, including coronary arteries. A chemical called acrolein interferes with the body’s ability to process cholesterol, leading to higher levels in the bloodstream.

Limit Alcohol Intake

Moderate alcohol consumption is another factor in reducing heart disease risk. NHS guidelines recommend no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over at least three days. Exceeding these limits regularly over a period of 10 years can increase the risk of heart disease or stroke.

Get Quality Sleep

Adequate sleep is important for heart health. A lack of sleep may increase the risk of heart disease. A healthy adult needs between seven and nine hours of sleep per night, while teenagers, children, and babies require more, ranging from eight to 16 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most commonly recognised symptoms of heart disease?

Chest pain was the most recognised symptom, identified by 80% of those surveyed, followed by shortness of breath at 77% and irregular heart rhythms at 70%.

What is the less well-known symptom of heart disease discussed?

Leg swelling, or oedema, is a less well-known symptom, occurring when fluid builds up in the tissue and potentially worsening throughout the day. Less than half (46%) of those surveyed were aware of this symptom.

How much exercise is recommended to reduce the risk of heart disease?

It’s recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. Staying active can reduce your risk of heart disease by up to 35%.

Considering the range of symptoms and preventative measures discussed, what small change could you make today to prioritize your heart health?

Doctor says ‘less well-known’ symptom of heart disease ‘worsens through day’