Dr Sudipta Mohanty: Recognizing The Signs Of An Unhealthy Heart

The heart and its health is essential for survival. Yet, often, it sends subtle distress signals before a storm brews. Spotting the signs of an unhealthy heart can be the difference between calm seas and a tumultuous hurricane. Dr Sudipta Mohanty will discuss the symptoms that may indicate cardiovascular distress, advocating for timely recognition and intervention.

Irregular Beats: Palpitations and Arrhythmias

One of the first inklings of an unhealthy heart is often an irregular heartbeat or palpitations. These can feel like the heart is skipping beats, fluttering, or beating too hard or too fast. Occasional palpitations can be harmless, but a persistent irregular rhythm can signal underlying heart conditions requiring a health professional’s navigation.

The Strain of Exertion: Chest Discomfort

Chest pain or discomfort, often described as angina, is a classic red flag. This sensation can manifest as a tightness, pressure, or squeezing, usually provoked by physical or emotional stress. Dr Sudipta Mohanty While not all chest pain is heart-related, it’s a symptom that necessitates immediate attention to rule out serious cardiac conditions.

The Exhaustion Tide: Fatigue and Shortness of Breath

Unusual fatigue and shortness of breath, especially when performing activities that used to be easy, can indicate that the heart is struggling. When the heart cannot pump efficiently, it can lead to a buildup of blood and fluid in the lungs, causing breathlessness and extreme tiredness. These symptoms could signpost a heart that is crying out for help.

The Swell of Fluids: Edema

Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen may signify that the heart isn’t pumping blood as effectively as it should. This condition, known as edema, can result in an accumulation of fluid, warranting medical evaluation to determine the root cause and appropriate course of action.

The Silent Alarm: Dizziness and Lightheadedness

Lastly, episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness can be unsettling experiences and may indicate an underlying heart issue, such as an arrhythmia or even a heart attack. Dr Sudipta Mohanty When these episodes are coupled with any of the other mentioned symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical guidance swiftly.