The heart is our most vital muscle, tirelessly pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body. But how can you tell if your heart is as strong as it should be? Cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeremy London recently highlighted the warning signs to look out for, warning that these “red flags” can indicate underlying heart issues. Here’s a comprehensive look at the signs, symptoms, and ways to gauge your heart’s health to keep you informed and proactive.

Heart disease causes around a quarter of all deaths in the UK (Getty Stock Images)

Recognizing Shortness of Breath as a Heart Health Indicator

One of the earliest and most common signs of a weak heart is shortness of breath, especially during mild physical activity. Dr. London explains that if you find yourself struggling to catch your breath while walking or performing simple tasks, it could be a signal that your heart isn’t working efficiently. When the heart is weak, it struggles to pump blood effectively, which can cause blood to pool in the lungs, making breathing difficult.

According to the British Heart Foundation, shortness of breath can be associated with treatable heart conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. While occasional shortness of breath may not be alarming, consistent symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.

Difficulty Breathing While Lying Flat: A Potential Sign of Orthopnea

Another indicator of a potential heart issue is difficulty breathing when lying flat, a condition known as orthopnea. If you find yourself propping up with multiple pillows to sleep comfortably, this could be more than just discomfort—it may be a sign of fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart weakness.

When the heart doesn’t pump efficiently, fluid backs up in the veins, often pooling in the lungs. Orthopnea is a classic symptom of heart failure, and it typically improves when you sit up or stand, as gravity helps drain excess fluid from the lungs. This red flag should prompt you to consult a doctor, especially if it persists or worsens.

Swelling in Legs and Ankles: An Often Overlooked Red Flag

Swollen legs and ankles are another tell-tale sign of heart weakness, yet they’re often overlooked as just fatigue or water retention. When the heart is weak, blood flow becomes sluggish, leading to a buildup of fluid in the lower extremities. This fluid retention, called edema, commonly affects the legs and ankles but can also extend to the abdomen in severe cases.

Dr. London emphasizes that this kind of swelling isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it’s a physical symptom of heart failure and poor circulation. The NHS also warns that persistent swelling in the legs, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, could indicate that the heart is struggling to maintain normal blood flow and should be taken seriously.

Understanding Ejection Fraction: A Key Measure of Heart Health

Dr. London mentions an important measurement in assessing heart strength called the “ejection fraction.” This is the percentage of blood that the heart pumps out with each beat. In a healthy heart, the ejection fraction typically falls between 65-70%, signifying that the heart is effectively circulating blood.

When this number dips significantly below the normal range, it indicates a weakened heart, as the muscle can no longer pump sufficient blood. Fortunately, an echocardiogram or ultrasound can measure ejection fraction easily, giving doctors an accurate picture of heart function. Knowing your ejection fraction can provide insight into your heart health and may even help identify heart failure early.

Fatigue and Decreased Exercise Tolerance: Signs of a Heart Under Strain

If you find yourself feeling unusually tired, even after a good night’s sleep, or if you have difficulty completing activities that used to be easy, these could be signs of a weakened heart. When the heart struggles, it reduces blood flow to muscles, leaving them less oxygenated and leading to an overall feeling of exhaustion.

This lack of endurance, or reduced “exercise tolerance,” is a red flag that your heart may not be strong enough to keep up with the body’s demands. If you notice you’re becoming fatigued more quickly during routine tasks or workouts, don’t ignore it—speak to a doctor who can help evaluate your heart health and identify any necessary treatments.

Chest Discomfort or Pain: More Than Just a Warning Sign

Chest pain is one of the most well-known symptoms of heart issues and should never be dismissed. Heart-related chest pain typically feels like pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation in the chest, which may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. While not every instance of chest pain is life-threatening, it’s essential to take any form of chest discomfort seriously, especially if it’s accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea.

Dr. London warns that recurring chest pain, particularly during exertion, can indicate reduced blood flow to the heart—a precursor to more serious conditions like angina or heart attack. Immediate medical attention is critical, as quick intervention can prevent further complications.

Why Monitoring Heart Health Matters: The Role of Regular Checkups

Maintaining heart health is a proactive process, and regular checkups can catch issues before they escalate. Many early symptoms of heart weakness, such as shortness of breath, swollen legs, or fatigue, can be subtle, but regular screenings help monitor important markers like blood pressure, cholesterol, and ejection fraction.

Routine screenings are particularly vital for those with a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other risk factors. By staying vigilant and knowing the early signs, you can take the necessary steps to keep your heart strong and reduce your risk of heart-related illnesses.

Simple Lifestyle Adjustments to Keep Your Heart Strong

If you’re looking to boost your heart health, a few lifestyle changes can make a significant impact:

• Exercise Regularly: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
• Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid excessive salt, sugar, and processed foods, which can strain the heart over time.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can increase blood pressure and lead to heart strain. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or spending time in nature.
• Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption weaken the heart. By quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake, you can support better cardiovascular health.

These simple changes not only support heart health but also enhance your overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of a weak heart can make a life-saving difference. From shortness of breath and swollen legs to fatigue and chest discomfort, these red flags are your body’s way of signaling that something isn’t right. By staying aware and proactive, you can take steps to keep your heart strong and seek medical attention when needed. Remember, regular checkups, a heart-healthy lifestyle, and understanding your body’s signals are essential for protecting your most vital organ—your heart.