Close-up of an ECG printout displaying heartbeat rhythm and frequency for medical analysis.

10 Early Signs of Heart Disease You Should Never Ignore

By Dr. Goutam S. Vaggar | Consultant Cardiologist |Dr. Vaggar Clinic

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death globally — and in many cases, it begins silently. Recognizing the early signs can make all the difference in preventing a major cardiac event like a heart attack or stroke.

At Dr. Vaggar Clinic, we believe in prevention first. Here are the 10 early symptoms of heart disease that you should take seriously.

1. Chest Discomfort or Tightness

The most common warning sign is discomfort in the chest. You might feel:

  • Pressure

  • Squeezing

  • Fullness

  • Burning or pain

This can occur during physical activity or while at rest. Don’t ignore it — even if it feels mild.


2. Shortness of Breath

Struggling to catch your breath, especially when climbing stairs or lying flat, can indicate that your heart isn’t pumping efficiently. It often accompanies heart failure or blocked arteries.


3. Fatigue Without Reason

Feeling unusually tired even after a full night’s sleep or light activity? This can be an early indicator of reduced blood flow due to heart disease — especially common in women.


4. Pain That Spreads to the Arm, Neck, Jaw or Back

Heart-related pain doesn’t always stay in the chest. Radiating pain — particularly down the left arm or up the jaw — is a classic symptom of a heart attack.


5. Swelling in Legs, Ankles or Feet

When the heart can’t pump blood effectively, it can cause fluid buildup in the lower extremities — a sign of congestive heart failure.


6. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat

Palpitations, fluttering sensations, or skipped beats could be a sign of arrhythmia. Left untreated, this could increase the risk of stroke or sudden cardiac arrest.


7. Lightheadedness or Dizziness

Feeling faint, dizzy, or having black-out episodes could indicate poor blood circulation, possibly from a narrowing artery or abnormal heart rhythm.


8. Persistent Cough or Wheezing

A chronic cough that brings up white or pink mucus may point to heart failure — where fluid leaks into the lungs.


9. Nausea, Indigestion or Heartburn

Surprisingly, heart issues can mimic digestive discomfort. If symptoms occur along with chest pain or shortness of breath, seek medical help immediately.


10. Cold Sweats or Feeling of Impending Doom

Breaking out into a cold sweat, feeling unusually anxious, or a sense that “something is wrong” can precede a heart attack — especially in men.

Patient undergoing a cardiac stress test in a medical clinic with a healthcare team.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms, don’t delay. Early diagnosis saves lives. At Dr. Vaggar Clinic, we offer:

ECG, Echo, TMT & Holter Monitoring

Angiography & Angioplasty

24×7 Cardiac Emergency Services

Schedule Your Heart Check-Up Today

Your heart deserves attention — even when it whispers.

📞 Call Now: +91-86558-81949
📍 Visit: Dr. Vaggar Clinic, Meenakshi Chowk, Vijayapura
🔗 Book Appointment Online

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