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Does Heart Disease Have Symptoms?
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Posted: June 1, 2008
Heart disease often has no symptoms. But, there are some signs to watch for. Chest or arm pain or discomfort can be a symptom of heart disease and a warning sign of a heart attack. Shortness of breath (feeling like you can't get enough air), dizziness, nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), abnormal heartbeats, swelling in the legs and feet, leg pain with walking that stops when at rest, or feeling very tired also can be signs.
Talk with your doctor if you're having any of these symptoms. Your doctor will take a medical history, do a physical exam and may order tests.
Tell your doctor if:
- You have ever been told that you have high blood pressure, diabetes (also called high blood sugar) or high cholesterol.
- Anyone in your family has had a heart attack or stroke.
- You are having symptoms. Tell your doctor what symptoms you’ve had, when they began, how often they happen, and whether they are getting better, worse or staying the same. Keeping a diary of your symptoms will help you keep track of them and help you talk about them with your doctor. Bring your diary with you to your visit.
Swelling (edema) in the legs and feet
Many people have leg swelling from causes other than heart disease. However, the collection of fluid in your legs can be a warning sign of heart problems. This is especially true if you have other symptoms, such as shortness of breath. You may have swelling in your abdomen, too. Tell your health care provider if your legs, ankles or feet have become swollen.
Pain in the legs with walking (claudication)
Pain that occurs in the calf muscles when you walk can be a sign of heart and blood vessel disease. This type of pain happens only with activity and stops a minute or two after you stop the activity. It occurs when your muscles are not getting enough oxygen because of blocked arteries. Blocked leg arteries may mean there are also blockages in the heart (coronary) arteries.
High blood pressure and high blood cholesterol
These are both warning signs of possible heart problems. You usually cannot tell if you have high blood pressure or high blood cholesterol without measuring your blood pressure or testing your blood. Both measurements can be done at health checkups. Discuss with your doctor how often your blood pressure and cholesterol needs to be checked.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
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