Know the Warning Signs

Learn when chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations warrant medical attention and what to do.

Your heart often gives you early clues when something isn’t right — but many people ignore or misunderstand these signs. Recognizing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations can make the difference between a quick recovery and a serious emergency.

 This guide will help you understand what these warning signs mean, when to seek medical help, and how to act fast if you or someone near you shows signs of heart trouble.

 1. Chest Pain or Pressure — Don’t Ignore It

What it feels like:

• A squeezing, heaviness, or burning in the center of the chest

• The pain may spread to the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or left arm

• It may come and go, or last for several minutes

What it could mean: Chest pain is one of the most common signs of angina or a heart attack (myocardial infarction). However, not all chest pain comes from the heart — sometimes it’s due to indigestion or muscle strain.

When to seek help: If you have persistent or severe chest pain, especially with sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath — call emergency services immediately. Do not try to “wait it out.”

2. Shortness of Breath — More Than Just Being Out of Shape

What it feels like:

• Difficulty breathing even at rest or during light activity

• Feeling like you can’t get enough air

• Worsens when lying flat

Possible causes: This can signal heart failure, coronary artery disease, or lung problems. In heart-related cases, the heart isn’t pumping efficiently, causing fluid buildup in the lungs.

What to do: If shortness of breath appears suddenly, or is accompanied by chest pain or swelling in your legs — seek medical attention right away.

3. Palpitations — When You Feel Your Heart “Skip a Beat”

What it feels like:

• Fluttering or racing heartbeat

• Skipped beats or pounding in your chest

• Lightheadedness or dizziness

  
  

What it could mean: These sensations may result from arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), stress, caffeine, or thyroid issues. Some arrhythmias are harmless, but others — like atrial fibrillation — can increase your risk of stroke.

What to do:

• Note when palpitations occur (after exercise, caffeine, or stress)

• Visit a doctor for an ECG or Holter monitor test

• Seek urgent help if you also feel faint, dizzy, or experience chest pain

4. Swelling in Feet, Ankles, or Abdomen

What it means: Fluid buildup in these areas can be an early warning sign of heart failure. The heart is not pumping effectively, causing blood to back up and fluid to leak into tissues.

What to do: If swelling happens suddenly or worsens daily, especially with shortness of breath or fatigue, see your doctor promptly.

5. Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness

Why it matters: Feeling unusually tired even after enough rest can be an early sign of coronary artery disease or heart failure — especially in women.

When to act: If fatigue is constant, accompanied by breathlessness or swelling, don’t ignore it. Early testing can prevent future complications.