Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease

Being aware of the signs and symptoms of the number one cause of death in North America is crucial. If your family has a history of heart disease or medical symptoms that are a cause for concern, knowing the signs and symptoms that signal you may have heart disease could be the last defense against possible death.

If you are ever diagnosed with heart failure or if you have the genetics of someone who has had heart failure, you need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease or heart failure and get yourself to a doctor as soon as possible. There are a number of common symptoms of heart disease and heart failure that should be noted. More information is available through the American Heart Association and their website, www.americanheart.org.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is one of the key signs and symptoms of heart failure related to heart disease. This is also called dyspnea and occurs because of a build-up of blood in the blood vessels that return blood from the lungs to the heart (also known as the pulmonary veins). This back-up of blood occurs because the heart is not strong enough to handle the blood supply. As a result of this back-up, fluid begins to leak into the lungs and shortness of breath is the result.

You may feel a shortness of breath while being active if you have heart failure, or you may even experience shortness of breath while sleeping. A lack of breath while sleeping can cause you to wake up suddenly, and shortness of breath during activity may force you to take a break. If you have either of these signs and symptoms, call your doctor right away.

Edema

Another of the medical symptoms involved with heart disease and heart failure is edema. Edema is a build-up of excess fluid in a number of the body's tissues. This occurs because of the slowing down of blood flow. As a result, there is a back-up of fluid in the veins that carry blood back to the heart. Fluid then accumulates in the tissues and the kidneys become less capable of disposing the right amount of them.

People with edema may experience signs and symptoms such as swelling in the ankles, feet, legs or abdomen. They may also experience weight gain as a result.

Bear in mind that not all of these signs and symptoms necessarily lead to heart attacks or heart problems. There are many signs of heart disease that you can investigate online through the American Heart Association's website at www.americanheart.org. As with any health concerns, always consult your doctor if you are concerned about signs and symptoms you may be experiencing.