Signs of Heart Problems

Difficulties in Diagnosing Signs of Heart Problems

Less than 1 in 5 heart problems are diagnosed before symptoms appear. The signs of heart problems are not always easily recognized. They can be subtle and very hard to detect for a lot of people. Their condition can worsen so slowly that it is hardly noticeable, more or less sneaking up on you slowly over time. Early signs of heart problems are unusual changes in heart rates, angina pain, collapsing from exhaustion after heavy physical exercise or sports related activities.

The two most common heart problems are coronary artery disease (the buildup of plaque in the arteries of the heart) and idiopathic cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle without a known cause). Many types of heart problems are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD), high blood pressure (hypertension), heart valve disease and high cholesterol.

If your heart problems are more evident, it's time to see a cardiologist. Many heart problems are not obvious simply by listening with a stethoscope. If they are present all the time, they may be found by a resting 12-lead EKG. Some heart problems are not present all of the time and therefore may not appear in EKG results. In cases where heart problems are suspected but not detected on the EKG, a halter monitor may be recommended. Some heart problems are more obvious when your heart is working harder and beating faster than when you are resting.

Those who have heart problems are encouraged to wear a medical alert bracelet and to go to the emergency room if they experience chest, back or abdominal pain.