6 symptoms of heart disease: From erectile dysfunction to jaw pain, leg swelling, more

Symptoms of heart disease: The heart sends distress signals that show up in places you don’t usually associate with heart disease, like the jaw, legs, or even in the form of flu-like fatigue (Image: Pexels)

People usually picture a heart attack as someone clutching their chest in pain. However, actual heart attack situations are not as dramatic as shown in movies. Women, especially, experience heart-related signs which are often faint and atypical. When it comes to health issues, your heart may send signals that are easy to overlook. A dull toothache. Swollen ankles after dinner. Or a strange heaviness when climbing stairs. These could be early red flags.

The trouble is, most people don’t connect the everyday (persistent) issues to heart problems. Women, especially, often experience silent symptoms that are not obvious. While not every ache means danger, recurring or unexplained changes in your body should raise a flag. Paying attention and checking in with your doctor could mean catching an issue before it becomes critical.

According to a recent Instagram post shared by Dr Dmitry Yaranov, MD, a cardiologist, heart trouble doesn’t always look the way you expect it to. In his post, he explains how your heart can send distress signals that show up in places you don’t usually associate with heart disease, like the jaw, legs, or even in the form of flu-like fatigue. It’s not about panic. It’s about paying attention when your body starts behaving in ways that feel off.

Causes of chronic fatigue: Chronic fatigue is one of the most common and overlooked symptoms in women with early heart disease (Image: Pexels)

Also read | Truth about heart diseases: 5 common misconceptions about heart health

6 surprising symptoms of heart disease

1. Jaw or tooth pain

This pain originates in the heart but is felt elsewhere. Women, in particular, often feel heart-related discomfort in the jaw. If there’s no clear dental reason, it might be angina or a silent heart attack. Get it checked.

2. Leg swelling

Swelling in the feet, ankles, or lower legs, especially toward the end of the day, can indicate that your heart isn’t pumping efficiently. When circulation slows, fluid builds up in the extremities. Don’t ignore this.

3. Shortness of breath at night

If you need extra pillows to sleep or feel winded lying flat, this could be orthopnoea, a sign of heart failure. It’s not just being out of shape. It’s your heart struggling with fluid overload.

Also read | Causes of heart attacks: 5 main reasons for heart diseases in young adults, and how to fight back

4. Nausea and cold sweats

Sudden nausea or clammy skin, especially if it hits without warning, can be signs of a heart attack. Women are more likely to experience this type of vague symptom. If it comes with lightheadedness or anxiety, get help.

5. Erectile dysfunction (ED)

Trouble with erections might not just be hormonal, it can be vascular. The arteries in the penis are smaller than those in the heart, so problems here can be an early indicator of clogged arteries or reduced blood flow.

6. Fatigue and flu-like feelings

That tired, run-down, something is off -feeling, can signal danger. If persistent and unexplained, it could be heart-related. Chronic fatigue is one of the most common and overlooked symptoms in women with early heart disease.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.