5 Early Signs You May Have Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming nearly 1 in every 4 lives. Many people don’t know they have it until they suffer a serious event—like a heart attack. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the early symptoms and risk factors. Catching heart disease early could save your life.

Before diving into the warning signs, it helps to know what “heart disease” actually means. The term refers to several conditions that affect the heart, but coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common. CAD reduces blood flow to the heart, which can lead to a heart attack or heart failure if left untreated.

1. Chest Tightness or Pressure (Angina)

Angina is one of the most common warning signs of heart disease. It often feels like:

• Tightness or heaviness in the chest
• Squeezing or pressure
• A dull ache or pain (sometimes mistaken for heartburn)

If you experience these symptoms, especially during physical activity or stress, it’s time to talk to your doctor. Don’t ignore chest pain—even if it goes away.

2. Cold Hands and Feet (Atherosclerosis)

Atherosclerosis is the hardening or narrowing of the arteries caused by cholesterol buildup. It reduces blood circulation, and one of the first signs is cold hands or feet. Poor circulation means your heart isn’t pumping efficiently, which increases your risk of heart attack or stroke.

3. Dizziness or Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is normal after intense exercise—but if it happens while resting or doing light activity, it could signal heart disease. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint may also indicate a lack of blood flow to the brain or heart.

Seek medical advice if you're experiencing these symptoms regularly or without a clear reason.

4. Rapid Heartbeat or Palpitations

Feeling like your heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats could be a sign of arrhythmia or another underlying heart condition. While some palpitations are harmless, others may be caused by reduced blood flow or electrical dysfunction in the heart. If your heart starts racing unexpectedly, schedule a check-up with a cardiologist.

5. Risk Factors You Shouldn’t Ignore

Certain health and lifestyle factors significantly raise your risk of developing heart disease, including:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Lack of physical activity
• Diets high in saturated fat and processed foods

These may not be symptoms, but they are powerful indicators that your heart could be in danger. Making changes now—like improving your diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol—can significantly reduce your risk.

When to See a Doctor

If you're experiencing symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath, don’t wait. Early intervention is key to preventing serious heart complications.

At BASS Medical Group, our expert cardiology team provides comprehensive heart care across the San Francisco Bay Area. We offer:

• Preventive screenings
• Diagnostic testing
• Treatment plans tailored to your lifestyle and needs

Schedule a Heart Health Check-Up Today

Don’t ignore the signs. If you're concerned about heart disease, schedule an appointment with BASS Medical Group to get evaluated by a cardiologist.