Health
Heart Symptoms Doctors Say You Should Never Ignore
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for Americans, often developing silently over many years without obvious signals.
Dr. Jennifer Haythe, a cardiologist at Columbia University, emphasizes that risk factors like high cholesterol frequently present no symptoms until a critical point.
To protect her own health, Haythe prioritizes a Mediterranean diet and engages in regular cardio and strength training workouts.
She also manages her genetic risk for high cholesterol with medication and ensures she gets seven hours of nightly sleep.
“I talk a lot about how I want women to pay attention to symptoms, but sometimes I also remind myself that I have to pay attention to symptoms in myself,” Haythe says.
Health Points
- Chest pressure or discomfort remains the most alarming warning sign of a potential heart attack for both men and women.
- Shortness of breath during normal activities, such as climbing stairs, can indicate blocked arteries and a lack of blood flow.
- Persistent upper abdominal pain or reflux sensations that do not improve should never be ignored, particularly by women.
Other vital signals to monitor include sudden dizziness, cold sweats not related to menopause, and sustained heart palpitations.
Proper screening and annual checkups are the most effective ways to catch these silent risks before they lead to an emergency.
Dr. Haythe encourages everyone to trust their instincts and seek a second opinion if they feel a health concern is not being addressed.
Taking control through lifestyle changes and preventive care dramatically reduces the chances of heart disease sneaking up on you.
