Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, but many people are unaware of its signs and symptoms. A recent survey found that 51% of Americans couldn’t identify heart disease as the top cause of death among adults.
In reality, nearly half of adults have some form of cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, or high blood pressure. Doctors emphasize the importance of recognizing risk factors and early warning signs to prevent complications like heart attacks and strokes.
The No. 1 sign of heart disease in men is chest pain, which may feel like tightness or squeezing rather than sharp pain. However, other symptoms such as shortness of breath, erectile dysfunction, changes in exercise capacity, leg pain or swelling, fatigue, and excessive sweating can also indicate heart problems.
To determine if symptoms are an emergency, patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience severe symptoms or chest pain lasting more than a few minutes. Mild symptoms may not require immediate action but should be discussed with a doctor.
Regular screenings starting from the age of 20 can help identify risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. These tests allow doctors and patients to understand cardiovascular risk and create personalized treatment plans.
By recognizing heart disease symptoms early and taking proactive steps towards prevention, individuals can significantly improve their chances of survival and reduce the risk of complications.
Source: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a63096101/signs-of-heart-disease-in-men