A doctor has detailed three red flags that could mean you have a weak heart or even heart failure.
It's the most important organ in the human body, so it's important to be aware of the symptoms that could indicate a problem with the heart.
Obviously, some symptoms such as chest pain are pretty obvious ones, but there are many other health issues that may indicate a problem.
Dr. Jeremy London, a heart surgeon who shares health advice on TikTok, has detailed three symptoms that could be a sign you have a weak heart.
Advert
Of course, don't panic if some of these health problems sound familiar, though you should certainly pay your healthcare provider a visit if you're experiencing any of them.
Shortness of breath
While it is perfectly common to experience shortness of breath after going through strenuous exercise, such a symptom just from walking can be a cause for concern.
"Most cases of shortness of breath are due to heart or lung conditions," the Mayo Clinic explains.
The symptom may come on suddenly or last a longer period of time. Nonetheless, its common causes include a heart attack and heart failure.
As a result, you're going to want to get that checked out.
Swollen legs
Edema, the medical term for swelling, is another sign an individual may have a weak heart.
While this can happen in any part of the body, it's the swelling of legs that are a cause for concern.
Swelling is caused by the buildup of fluid in tissues, with blood increase in the veins of your legs being an indication your ticker may not be working as it should.
If the swelling is unexplained and accompanied by chest pain, fainting, dizziness, breathing troubles, or a cough that produces blood, experts say you should go to the doctor.
Trouble breathing when laying down
Orthopnea, the fancy medical term for shortness of breath that occurs when lying flat, is another one to look out for.
Some folks with the condition have to sleep propped up in bed or sitting in a chair, which typically relieves symptoms.
However, orthopnea is almost often a sign of an underlying health condition, often heart failure.
If you do go get any of these checked out for a potentially weak heart, Dr London explained what tests medical experts would perform.
He said: "An ultrasound probe that’s placed on the chest … typically can measure ejection fraction, which is the percentage of blood that’s ejected from the heart with each beat.
"Normal is 65 to 70 percent. If it’s markedly decreased from that, that could be an indication of heart failure or a weak heart."
Callum Jones