Early Warning Signs of Heart Problems Your Primary Doctor Can Detect

Chest Pain or Discomfort

While chest pain or discomfort is associated with a heart attack, it can manifest as heaviness, pressure, squeezing, or burning. Whether the pain radiates from the neck, jaw, arms, back, or stomach, pay attention to the duration and intensity of the pain. Additionally, heart doctors can check for other symptoms like shortness of breath to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Shortness of Breath

As mentioned, shortness of breath often accompanies chest discomfort, indicating a heart problem that needs immediate attention. If you experience shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying down, it could indicate a heart problem. Shortness of breath may also indicate that the heart is not pumping efficiently or there’s fluid in the lungs. If you experience difficulty breathing, visit your heart doctor for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Swelling in the Ankles, Legs, or Feet

Swelling in the lower extremities, or edema, is a sign of congestive heart failure. Fluid retention is a common sign that occurs when the heart struggles to circulate blood efficiently, causing a buildup in the tissues. While there are many causes of swelling, primary care doctors can pinpoint the main cause and recommend the best course of action.

Dizziness, Fainting, or Lightheadedness

When the heart struggles to supply the brain with sufficient oxygenated blood, it can cause these symptoms to arise. In addition, heart rhythm problems, structural heart disease, or blood pressure issues can contribute to dizziness and lightheadedness. If you experience these symptoms, schedule a consultation with a reputable heart doctor to ensure you act quickly.

Irregular Heartbeat or Palpitations

The feeling that your heart is racing, skipping beats, or fluttering irregularly can be unsettling. Although occasional palpitations are usually harmless, persistent ones should be evaluated by a heart doctor. Physicians can pinpoint underlying issues and recommend effective treatments to restore proper heart function.

Beyond the symptoms mentioned, other warning signs to look out for include numbness or pain in the legs and arms, feeling unusually fatigued, nausea, or memory loss. While warning signs may not raise concerns initially, delaying professional intervention can be fatal.

When to See a Heart Doctor

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they are persistent, new, or worsen over time, it may be time to schedule a consultation with your physician. Primary care doctors can diagnose and treat these symptoms, eliminating discomfort and improving your overall health. In the case of severe complications, you may be referred to a heart doctor for more specialized care and improved outcomes.

Unlike primary care doctors, cardiologists in Camp Springs, MD can evaluate your symptoms and risk factors, recommending the appropriate steps to restore optimal heart health and overall well-being. If you are unsure whether the discomfort you feel is a sign of heart problems, schedule a consultation with the experts at Southern Maryland Medical Group. We leverage extensive expertise and specialized equipment to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of heart problems. Don’t ignore early warning signs until it is too late; let our physicians help you maintain good heart health and improve your overall well-being.