It is common for Hollywood actors to hold onto their chests or keel over to depict a case of a heart attack. Interestingly, experts believe that pain in the chest or shortness of breath may not qualify as symptoms of heart disease. Experiencing symptoms in other parts of your body may also signify that you have developed the disease. If you wonder what having heart disease feels like, consider seeing a Plano heart disease specialist at Prime Heart and Vascular.
How to know if you have heart disease
While the most common symptoms of heart disease occur in the chest, not all are heart-related. See a heart disease specialist if you experience the following symptoms:
1. Chest pain and discomfort
Chest discomfort happens differently depending on your case severity. Some people describe it as if something heavy is sitting on their chest, while others feel excruciating pain that does not seem to go away. The worst part is that the discomfort occurs even when you are resting. Remember, you may have heart disease and not experience chest discomfort. Only a heart doctor can perform exams to determine if you have it.
2. Shortness of breath
Imagine a scenario where you were performing your house chores when suddenly, you lose your breath. Some people say it is like gasping for air when you are climbing a hill. Others compare it to holding your breath while you are swimming in water. Whatever the case, shortness of breath could indicate that your heart is not pumping blood normally. See a heart specialist if it happens more than usual.
3. Nausea and digestive problems
That feeling of wanting to vomit even if there is nothing in your stomach could be a symptom of heart disease. If it gets to a point where you experience heartburn, stomach pain, or any other digestive problem, you could be having a heart attack. Unlike men, women with heart disease are likely to face these symptoms due to hormonal imbalance.
4. Irregular heartbeat
An average person’s heartbeat rate should range between 60 and 100 per minute. If it is lower or higher than this range, you should be worried. It means your coronary arteries are either overwhelmed or ruptured. To be on the safer side, always feel your pulse on the wrist or neck to see if your heartbeat is regular.
5. Pain in your jaw, upper torso, or neck
Heart disease can affect arteries supplying blood to your neck, upper torso, or jaw. If you experience any pain in any of these parts, see a heart specialist immediately.
You do not have to live with heart disease
Heart disease is treatable but only when it is detected early. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk with your primary care provider to refer you to a heart specialist. Chances are your doctor will perform various exams, including imaging tests, to determine your case severity. Remember, a family history of heart disease also puts you at risk of developing it. To find out if you are a candidate for heart disease treatment, schedule a consultation with your doctor today.