Hidden Signs of Heart Problems

Chest pain is a common sign of a heart problem, and most people are aware of this. 
However, there are multiple, hidden signs of heart disease of which most people are 
unaware. This article will discuss the symptoms of heart trouble that often go unnoticed.

Swelling and Weight Gain

People with heart valve problems may develop swollen ankles, legs or feet. Some 
people swell in the abdominal area. The swelling is caused by a build-up of fluids. 
These fluids build due to a reduction in blood flow from the heart. Due to decreased 
heart functioning, some patients begin to gain weight rapidly. Rapid weight gain is 
described as the gaining of two or more pounds in a day or five or more pounds in a 
single week. Heart patients should watch out for swelling and weigh themselves weekly. 

Nausea and Lack of Appetite

Though people don't normally associate stomach problems with heart trouble, stomach 
problems are not uncommon in heart patients. Some patients lose their appetite due to 
a decreased amount of blood received in the digestive system. This decrease in blood 
weakens the digestive system. Heart patients who lose their appetite may complain of 
feeling overly full or nauseated. 

Confusion

It is common knowledge that confusion and a lack of cognitive functioning are 
associated with illnesses such as Alzheimer's. However, many people are unaware that 
cognitive problems can also be associated with heart disease. People with heart trouble 
may have memory loss and a general feeling of disorientation. This is caused by 
changes in the levels of substances in the blood. 

Chronic Cough

While coughing and wheezing may not necessarily be "hidden signs," these symptoms 
are sometimes overlooked or mistaken for cold or flu. People with heart disease tend to 
cough or wheeze often. This is because fluid builds up in the lungs. This cough can 
interfere with daily activities, and it may worsen over time. The wheezing and coughing 
is often most severe during physical exertion. Those who experience this coughing 
might also produce pink or white mucus mixed with blood. 

The aforementioned symptoms can be indicators of various illnesses, and they should 
all be taken seriously, especially when they occur simultaneously. A person diagnosed 
with heart disease should make his or her doctor aware of worsening symptoms, new 
symptoms or changing symptoms. A cardiologist can recommend medications, 
therapies and changes in daily activities that may lessen the severity of symptoms. 
While there is no cure for heart disease, modern medicine and a change in patient 
lifestyle can treat symptoms and improve a patient's overall quality of life.

