Heart disease kills millions of people every year. Early diagnosis of heart diseases that develop due to many different causes saves lives. According to Harvard Medical School, nearly half of all heart attacks are diagnosed late as less serious problems. In addition to the obvious signs of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, lightheadedness and nausea, there are more subtle signs to look for.
UNKNOWN SYMPTOMS OF HEART DISEASES
SPREADING JAW AND NECK PAIN
The discomfort associated with heart conditions is not limited to chest pain. It is possible to experience jaw and neck discomfort as a result of heart problems such as heart disease or a heart attack. Pain radiating from the chest to the jaw and neck can be a sign of an irregular heartbeat or heart disease. Heart attack symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating, but jaw or neck pain that worsens when you’re active and stops when you’re resting can be signs of heart problems. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience jaw or neck pain.
SEXUAL PROBLEMS
Clinical studies have shown that heart disease can have a detrimental effect on sex life, including both men and women. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an early indicator of arterial damage and heart disease for men. It is caused by hardening of the arteries or endothelial dysfunction, where blood vessels cannot expand and contract properly. Artery damage and heart disease are linked to reduced blood flow to the penis and endothelial dysfunction.
DON’T TAKE SEXUAL PROBLEMS AS SIMPLE
A 2007 study reported that eighty-seven percent of women with heart failure had a high degree of sexual dysfunction, such as vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and low libido. All these symptoms are caused by endothelial dysfunction and can lead to circulatory problems, plaque buildup in the arteries, blockages and heart attacks.
Calf CRAMPS
If you experience leg pain or discomfort while walking, it could be a sign of heart problems. Calf cramps, pain, or numbness when walking may be due to peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAH is a condition that causes the blood vessels that feed your organs and limbs to become blocked, resulting in reduced blood flow.
CAN CAUSE A HEART ATTACK AND PALACE
Other PAH symptoms include leg ulcers, poor hair growth, and skin color changes. This is a common condition that causes calf pain when exercising and relief when resting. Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries) can disrupt blood flow to the legs, causing a heart attack or stroke. PAH can be caused by atherosclerosis.