As human beings, we often encounter various health disorders throughout our lives, some of which can cause significant discomfort. Illnesses are a common part of life, affecting people to different degrees of severity.
In many cases, the body gives us early signals or warning signs that hint at underlying health issues. Unfortunately, some diseases remain silent, showing no noticeable symptoms until they progress to an advanced stage.
Take cancer, for example — in its initial stages, the affected person may not even realize they are suffering from the disease. Similarly, the heart, one of the most vital organs of the body, can be severely impacted even by minor malfunctions, sometimes leading to life-threatening consequences.
Since heart health can decline due to various reasons, it’s important to recognize certain surprising signs that might suggest your heart is not functioning as well as it should. Here are a few to watch out for:
# Swollen AnklesHeart conditions can lead to fluid retention in the body, known as edema, which often causes noticeable swelling in the ankles.
# HeadachesWhile headaches are common and often harmless, persistent headaches lasting for more than two months could be a sign of heart-related issues.
# FatigueTiredness is something most people experience, but extreme or unexplained fatigue may indicate that the heart is struggling to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.
# Stomach CrampsIn certain cases, pain signals from a diseased heart may radiate to the stomach, resulting in cramps or discomfort.
# Upper Back PressureConstant stiffness or pressure in the upper back might suggest poor blood circulation, which could be linked to heart problems.
# CoughingA persistent dry cough or wheezing, without any clear respiratory infection, may also point to an underlying heart condition.
# Loss of AppetiteWhen the heart is unhealthy, it can reduce the flow of oxygenated blood to the digestive system, leading to nausea, reduced appetite, or both.