Are you listening to your heart? How to recognize the early signs of heart disease 

Your heart is more than just a muscle—it’s the engine that keeps your body running. With every beat, it pumps oxygen-rich blood to your organs. But what happens when this vital system starts to break down? Heart disease can develop quietly, showing only subtle signs before becoming a serious threat. A new report by the American Heart Association reveals cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States.

The tricky part? The early warning signs aren’t always obvious and can vary based on factors like age and gender. Recognizing them early could make all the difference

Types of Heart Disease  

Heart disease is an umbrella term for several conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly. The most common is coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the blood vessels in your heart narrow, making it harder for blood to flow properly.

However, heart disease isn’t just about clogged arteries. Faulty heart valves can force the heart to work harder, while electrical malfunctions can cause arrhythmias—irregular heartbeats that may lead to blood clots, strokes, or heart failure. Some people are also born with congenital heart disease, which affects the heart’s structure from birth.

Understanding these conditions is the first step, but recognizing the symptoms and catching them early is crucial to protecting your heart health.

Early Warning Signs of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

CAD makes it harder for blood to reach your heart and other parts of your body. If the artery blockage is severe, it puts you at risk of a heart attack.  

CAD/heart attack warning signs include:

• Chest pain or tightness (often described as sharp, squeezing, or a feeling of pressure, like an elephant sitting on your chest).  
• Pain in your jaw, neck, throat, upper belly, back, or one or both arms.  
• Unusual fatigue or shortness of breath (especially in women).  
• Cold sweats, often with nausea or lightheadedness (more common in women).

Women are more likely to have “silent” heart disease, meaning they may not experience obvious symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they are often mistaken for the flu, stress, or simply the effects of aging. Unlike men, who typically experience chest pain during physical activity, women are more likely to feel discomfort while resting. The risk of CAD increases for women around age 50, when estrogen's protective effects decline, while men typically see their risk rise in their 40s.

Early Warning Signs of Heart Rhythm Problems (Arrhythmia)  

Arrhythmias cause your heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. Symptoms can include:  

• A fluttering feeling in your chest.  
• A racing heartbeat.  
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.  
• Shortness of breath.  
• Chest pain (though it’s not always the main symptom).

Early Warning Signs of Heart Valve Problems  

Your heart has four valves that open and close to keep blood moving. Issues with these valves—whether they’re narrowing, leaking, or not closing properly—can cause:  

• Fatigue or a lack of energy.  
• Shortness of breath.  
• Swollen ankles and feet (from fluid buildup).  
• Dizziness or fainting.  
• Chest pain (though it’s not a common early symptom).

Don’t Wait to See a Doctor  

If you notice any heart disease symptoms, it’s important to see your primary care doctor right away. They might refer you to a cardiologist, who might prescribe heart medications, create treatment plans, and, if needed, refer you to a specialist or surgeon for advanced care.  

To learn more about our cardiology services or to schedule an appointment, visit Luminis.Health/Cardiology or call (443) 481-6700.

Taking care of your heart starts with understanding it—don’t ignore the warning signs!