Signs that may indicate a heart problem
Some heart conditions cause obvious symptoms, while others develop gradually or produce few symptoms. These signs deserve attention:
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Chest pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain, especially during activity.
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Shortness of breath, with exercise or sometimes at rest.
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Unusual fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance.
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Pain or discomfort spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw.
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Palpitations — a racing, pounding, or irregular heartbeat.
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Dizziness or fainting, particularly with exertion.
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Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen, which can occur with fluid retention.
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Waking at night short of breath or needing several pillows to breathe comfortably.
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Persistent cough or wheezing, particularly when accompanied by breathlessness or swelling.
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Cold sweats, nausea, or unexplained weakness, which can accompany a heart attack.
🚨 Don’t wait with possible heart-attack symptoms
If you develop new or persistent chest pressure/pain, especially with shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain spreading to the arm, back, neck, or jaw, seek emergency medical help immediately. Don’t drive yourself if emergency transport is available.
Symptoms can be different in women, older adults, and people with diabetes, and a heart attack doesn’t always cause dramatic chest pain.
