Your heart works nonstop, pumping blood to every part of your body. But when it begins to weaken, it gives off subtle warning signs long before a major issue occurs. Recognizing these early symptoms can help you seek treatment before it becomes serious.
1. Constant Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, especially during light activity, may mean your heart isn’t pumping enough oxygen-rich blood to your muscles and organs.
2. Shortness of Breath: Struggling to breathe during simple tasks like climbing stairs or lying flat could signal your heart can’t meet your body’s oxygen needs.
3. Swollen Feet or Ankles: Fluid buildup in your lower body is a classic sign your heart isn’t pumping blood properly, leading to poor circulation and swelling.
4. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: A racing or fluttering heartbeat, especially at rest, can indicate your heart is overworking or dealing with rhythm issues.
5. Persistent Cough: A nagging cough with pink or frothy mucus, especially at night, may suggest fluid is backing up into your lungs due to heart failure.
These symptoms often appear together. Don’t ignore them—early medical attention can help manage and even reverse heart damage.