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Leading Heart Doctor Warns Indigestion-Like Symptom Could Signal Life-Threatening Condition
A leading cardiologist is warning the public that a common symptom, often mistaken for indigestion and exacerbated by physical activity, could indicate a potentially life-threatening heart condition. Dr. Roy Jogiya, chief medical advisor at Heart Research UK and consultant cardiologist at Kingston and St Thomas Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in London, stresses that recognizing early warning signs of heart disease is crucial.
Dr. Jogiya explains that many patients are unaware their symptoms are heart-related, often attributing them to exhaustion, stress, or simply aging.
He points out that the most frequent symptom he encounters is chest discomfort, which rarely presents as the dramatic, intense pain often depicted in the media. Instead, patients describe feelings of pressure, tightness, heaviness, or a burning sensation, sometimes resembling indigestion.
A key indicator that this discomfort may be heart-related is its tendency to worsen with movement and ease with rest, suggesting the heart is struggling to receive sufficient blood flow.
Dr. Jogiya emphasizes that any chest discomfort lasting more than a few minutes, particularly if it intensifies with exertion or is accompanied by nausea, sweating, or breathlessness, requires immediate medical attention. He urges individuals not to delay seeking help, even if symptoms seem vague or persist for days or weeks.
Other potential heart-related symptoms to watch for include:
- Swollen ankles or legs
- Breathlessness, especially when lying down or during light activity
- Palpitations (a fluttering or racing heart sensation)
- Dizziness or fainting spells
While these symptoms might appear minor, they can be early indicators of heart problems.
Certain factors increase the risk of heart disease, and age is not the sole determinant. Dr.
Jogiya advises everyone, regardless of age, to monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol levels and be aware of their family history. He highlights that even seemingly small lifestyle changes and early check-ups can significantly impact heart health.
Individuals should be particularly vigilant if they:
- Have a family history of heart problems
- Have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Are from a South Asian or Black ethnic background
- Smoke or have a history of smoking
- Are a woman over 40 or post-menopause
- Do not exercise regularly or maintain a balanced diet
Dr. Jogiya emphasizes that numerous proactive steps can be taken to protect heart health. These include:
- Engaging in brisk walking for 30 minutes most days
- Reducing intake of salt, processed foods, and sugary drinks
- Prioritizing sleep and managing stress effectively
- Quitting smoking or seeking support to reduce smoking
- Regularly monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
- Maintaining social connections
- Practicing relaxing activities such as yoga, listening to music, or mindfulness
He concludes by stating that even small, consistent changes can have a significant positive impact on heart health over time, particularly when implemented early.