Your Heart Matters: Warning Signs You Should Look Out For

Cardiology Care provides a full heart service and believes in working with its patients to maintain and improve their health. Dr Naveen Mudalagiri FRCP, consultant cardiologist, believes in providing comprehensive cardiac care services to patients in a friendly, relaxed environment. He also believes in educating patients to help them achieve the best physical state possible.

So, what do I look out for?

• Chest pains: Could this be a heart attack? Usually described as a pressure, heaviness, band-like tightness around the chest. If you have chest pains and feel very unwell, call 999. However, if the symptoms come on with exertion, you may have angina (reduced blood flow to heart). You should book an appointment to see a doctor, but don’t really need to call the emergency services. If you’re feeling sick or vomit, you should call an ambulance.
• Arm/jaw pains: Arm pains can be a sign of a heart attack or angina. If the pains spread to the neck, jaw or back, it’s more likely to be heart-related and if it doesn’t go away, call 999.
• Stomach pains: The heart, food pipe (gullet) and stomach lie near each other, so it can be difficult to tease out what’s causing the problem. Call 111 or speak to a doctor.
• Sweating: If associated with chest pains/tightness, this could be a heart attack, so call an ambulance.
• Leg pains: Cramp-like pains in the calves when walking could be due to a narrowing of your leg arteries (vascular disease).
• Swollen legs/ankles: Swollen legs or ankles could be a sign of heart failure. In the first instance, be sure to speak to a doctor to find out the cause.
• Fatigue and shortness of breath: Feeling tired is a common symptom and if it occurs after a long day at work then it’s probably nothing to worry about. However, if you get very tired or short of breath without a change in your lifestyle, seek help.
• Flutters/palpitations: The vast majority of palpitations aren’t serious; however, some can be dangerous. If your heart beat is fast and jumps around, you should see a doctor. If you have fast heart beats and faint, call an ambulance.
• Major risk factors for heart disease and stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol and a family history of heart disease. Get a cholesterol and blood pressure check.

Appointments offered at:

LycaHealth, London and Kent get in touch to book in.