The start of heart disease can manifest itself in a wide variety of ways, depending on the type of heart condition a person has. Generally, the symptoms of early-stage heart disease can include chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the extremities.
Chest pain or tightness is the most common symptom of heart disease. It is usually described as a squeezing feeling, and may be localized to the chest, or radiate to the neck, shoulder, or jaw. This type of pain is often brought on by physical exertion and may last for several minutes, or even hours.
Shortness of breath is another common symptom of heart disease. This symptom often occurs during physical activity, when the heart is not able to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. As a result, the person may experience difficulty breathing or feel winded after minimal exercise.
Fatigue is a symptom of many heart-related conditions, and can be brought on by a variety of factors. For example, if the heart is not working efficiently to pump blood throughout the body, it may leave a person feeling tired and lethargic.
Lastly, swelling in the extremities (usually the feet and ankles) is another symptom of heart disease. This can occur when fluid accumulates in the legs and feet due to poor circulation. In addition, if a person has a heart valve condition, they may experience swelling in the abdomen as well.
Overall, the start of heart disease can feel different for each person. However, the most common symptoms are chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the extremities. If any of these symptoms persist, it is important to consult a medical professional.