A leading cardiologist has warned that a common symptom of heart disease, which can be mistaken for indigestion, may be indicative of a life-threatening condition. According to Dr. Roy Jogiya, chief medical adviser at Heart Research UK and consultant cardiologist at Kingston and St Thomas Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in London, chest discomfort is the most common symptom he encounters among his patients.
Unlike the intense, squeezing chest pain often depicted in media, individuals report sensations of pressure, tightness, weightiness, or a burning sensation. A key indicator that heart disease may be the cause is if the discomfort intensifies with movement and eases with rest.
Dr Jogiya emphasized that this symptom requires urgent attention, as it can be an early warning sign of heart problems. Other symptoms to watch for include swollen ankles or legs, breathlessness, palpitations, dizziness, and fainting spells.
Certain people are at a higher risk of heart disease, including those with a family history of heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, as well as smokers and women over 40. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and social connections can help lower the risk of heart disease.
Small, consistent changes can make a big difference over time, Dr Jogiya said, highlighting the importance of early checks and preventive measures to protect one’s heart health.
Source: https://www.themirror.com/news/health/cardiologist-warns-common-heart-disease-1175542