Cardiovascular problems affect more than 50 million people in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The time to prevent these problems from escalating are when the first signs of symptoms appear. Some symptoms are more serious than others and need immediate attention because they might be indicators of a life-threatening condition. Other symptoms should be discussed as soon as possible with your health care provider.
Numbness or Weakness
Numbness or weakness in the face, arms or legs can be a significant warning sign of compromised circulation and narrowed arteries, which are both precursors to heart disease. Changes should be made in the diet to exclude saturated fat and include more whole grains, raw fruits and vegetables.
Numbness might also signify an impending or occurring heart attack. If symptoms persist for more than 15 minutes or are accompanied by pain radiating through the chest, neck and jaw, go to the nearest hospital immediately because you might be experiencing a heart attack.
Edema
One of the first signs of congestive heart failure is edema in the lower legs. Edema is characterized by an overload of fluid (mostly water) filling the spaces between the cells. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to effectively pump fluid throughout the body. Fluid backs up in the heart, more fluid pools in the extremities and the person experiences fatigue and shortness of breath. Reducing salt intake, maintaining a daily two-liter fluid restriction and monitoring your weight for no more than a three-pound gain overnight, are effective strategies for managing congestive heart failure in addition to prescribed medication. A weight gain of more than three pounds in 24 hours should be reported to your doctor.
Rapid Heart Rate
A sustained heartbeat of more than 100 beats per minute could be a sign of serious cardiovascular compromise. The heart has ceased to be an effective and thorough pump. Oxygen demands to the brain and muscles cannot be met, and a heart attack might ensue. A person might feel palpitations and be worried that his heart is going to explode. The emergency response team should be called and the person taken to the nearest hospital.
Slow Heart Rate
A slow heart rate (anything lower than 60 beats per minute) could be a sign of an extremely healthy person or someone who is in need of a pacemaker. A chronic resting heart rate in the 30s or 40s indicates the heart is not perfusing the tissues with the proper amounts of oxygen and nutrients. Organ function might be compromised unless the problem is corrected. Other symptoms include shortness of breath and fatigue with activity.
Dizziness Upon Rising
Vertigo, loss of balance or coordination upon rising from a seated position might indicate postural hypotension. The heart is unable to withstand the increased demand for oxygen and blood with an increase in activity. Making changes in position slowly in order to give the heart time to recover and adjust the blood volume, or medications might be helpful.
Conclusion
A yearly physical, complete with lab tests and an EKG to identify idiosyncrasies within the heart rhythm is recommended for every adult.
