Recognizing the warning signs of heart failure

Heart failure affects millions of people worldwide, yet many remain unaware of the warning signs that could save lives. Megan Pelter, MD, FACC, an advanced heart failure and transplant cardiologist at Loma Linda University Health, shares insights to help individuals recognize symptoms, understand risk factors, and take proactive steps for prevention.

Early symptoms of heart disease

“The most common early warning sign of heart disease is chest pain,” Pelter says. “This is particularly concerning if it feels like a pressure-like sensation that occurs with exercise or stress and goes away with rest.” Such pain may also radiate to the jaw, back, or upper abdomen, indicating possible blockages or narrowing of the coronary arteries. Left untreated, these conditions can lead to a heart attack.

Additional symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath, especially when walking.
• Swelling in both legs.
• Difficulty sleeping due to shortness of breath, often requiring the use of multiple pillows.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Profuse sweating or nausea accompanying chest pain.

Heart disease in men and women

While chest pain is a universal symptom, women often experience atypical signs of heart disease. “Women are more likely to report symptoms like indigestion, pain in the jaw, back, or upper abdomen without chest pain, as well as nausea or vomiting,” Pelter says. Recognizing these differences is crucial, as delayed treatment can lead to worsening heart function or even death.

When to seek medical attention

According to Pelter, individuals should seek immediate medical attention if they experience:

• Severe chest pain that persists or occurs at rest.
• Palpitations that do not resolve.
• Worsening shortness of breath at rest.
• Inability to lie flat even with pillows.
• Fainting episodes.

“It’s always better to err on the side of caution and get evaluated,” she says.

Commonly overlooked symptoms

Heart disease symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, such as acid reflux or lung disease. “Monitor potential triggers to your symptoms,” Pelter says. “Does it happen after eating? With physical activity? During stressful situations? These patterns can provide valuable clues for your doctor.”

Lifestyle changes for prevention

Prevention plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of heart disease. Pelter recommends:

• Exercise: Engage in moderate-intensity activities like walking, swimming, or running for 30 minutes at least five times a week. Start gradually to avoid overexertion.
• Diet: Avoid fast foods, fried foods, and high-carbohydrate meals. Opt for lean proteins like fish and chicken, increase vegetable and fruit intake, minimize red meat, and limit processed grains and desserts.

Managing risk factors

High blood pressure, diabetes, and family history significantly increase the risk of heart disease. “Keeping good blood pressure and blood sugar control through diet, exercise, and medication is essential,” Pelter says. She also encourages individuals to maintain a daily blood pressure log and inform their doctor about any family history of early heart disease.

Advancements in detection and treatment

Loma Linda University Health offers cutting-edge tools to detect and manage heart disease early. “We provide coronary CT scans to noninvasively visualize arteries for plaque buildup,” Pelter says. Stress testing and angiograms are available for assessing blocked arteries, while treatments include medications for cholesterol and blood pressure management.

Recognizing the signs of heart failure and heart disease is the first step to prevention and treatment. By understanding your symptoms, adopting a healthier lifestyle, and seeking timely medical care, you can significantly reduce your risk and improve your quality of life.

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