Unexpected Signs You’re at Risk for Heart Disease

The older we get, the more important it is to take care of our hearts. Our heart is one of the most important organs in our body, this is why being on the lookout for the signs of heart disease is so important. The harder your heart has to work the weaker it becomes. Every day, your heart is pumping blood through your veins and maintaining the rhythm that keeps your body alive.

Not all heart problems come with a warning sign, so it’s important to listen to your body and understand other signs when you may be at risk for heart disease or heart failure. Some symptoms may not even happen in your chest and if you’re not sure it is recommended to see a doctor right away. This is especially true if you’re over the age of 60, have high blood pressure, or have diabetes.

Specifically, watch out for these problems:

1. Swollen Feet, Legs, or Ankles

   Swelling of the feet, also called edema, could signal somethings off with your cardiovascular system. If your legs and feet get swollen your body is telling you that blood is not being pumped properly. If your heart is not pumping blood as effectively as it should, you may be at risk for heart disease.

2. Excessive Coughing

   In most cases, a continuous cough that won’t go away is a tell-tale sign of heart disease. If you find that you’re coughing up pink or white mucus, as opposed to clear mucus, it could be a sign of heart failure. The reason for the pinkish color is because when your heart can’t keep up with your body’s demands, blood will leak back into the lungs.

   Heart failure does not mean your heart has stopped. Heart failure means the heart is not able to pump blood the way it should. This can be very serious and should be immediately addressed with your doctor.

3. Loud Snoring

   A little snoring is normal while you’re sleeping. However, unusually loud snoring that sounds like gasping can be a sign of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is when breathing repeatedly stops and starts which can strain your heart. If you notice excessive snoring, you should consult with your doctor and look into treatment plans to ensure steady breathing while sleeping.

4. Chest Discomfort

   This is the most common sign that your heart is in danger. If you feel tightening, or pain in your chest it could mean that an artery is blocked which could cause a heart attack. This feeling typically lasts longer than a few minutes and can happen at any time – whether you’re resting or doing something physical.

5. An ache in Your Left Arm or Shoulder

   This is another classic symptom of a heart attack, which indicates deeper heart problems. A lack of oxygen to your body can cause pain in your left arm or shoulder. This is called angina and it occurs when the heart is not getting enough oxygen. The pain experienced is indicating a lack of oxygen and can lead to a heart attack.

6. Pain in your jaw

   Sometimes the manifestation of a heart attack or some cardiac event can be felt in the jaws, the teeth, and the neck. This happens more commonly in women, but the pain in your left jaw could signal something more serious with your heart.

There are a few steps you can take to prevent heart disease and ensure you have a healthy, happy heart to avoid any complications as we age. It’s important to eat a clean, healthy diet and exercise moderately at least 4 times a week. It’s also important to keep cholesterol and blood pressure stable and try to avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

LivingBetter50 is a magazine for women over 50, offering an over 50 magazine free download for women with spirit!