10 Warning Signs of Heart Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore

Heart problems don’t always show up in obvious ways. For some people, the warning signs can be subtle, while for others, there may be none at all, making it easy to brush symptoms aside or confuse them with something less serious.

Being aware of what to look out for is an important step in protecting your long-term health. While not every ache or pain points to the heart, recognising the signs early gives you the chance to seek help before things become more serious. Just as no two hearts beat the same, the signs of heart problems can vary greatly from person to person.

That’s why it’s so important to listen to your body and know what may signal an issue.

Chest Pain

A heavy, tight, or squeezing feeling in your chest could be a sign of a heart attack or angina.

Stomach Pain or Indigestion

A burning feeling in your chest or upper stomach might feel like indigestion but sometimes it’s actually your heart. If you’re unsure, get checked.

Pain in the Arm, Jaw, Neck, or Back

Heart pain doesn’t always stay in the chest. If you feel pain spreading, especially down your left arm or into your jaw seek medical help.

Sudden Sweating

Breaking out in a cold sweat for no reason, especially with chest pain or nausea, could be a sign of a heart attack.

Choking or Tightness in the Throat

Some people feel heart-related discomfort higher up in the neck or throat. It might feel like a squeezing or choking sensation.

Feeling Sick or Nauseous

Most of the time, feeling queasy will not be related to your heart. However nausea or vomiting that comes with chest pain or discomfort should be taken seriously.

Swollen Ankles or Feet

Swelling in your lower legs could be a sign your heart isn’t pumping properly and fluid is building up.

Leg Pain When Walking

Pain or cramping in your legs while walking might point to circulation problems, especially if you smoke or have diabetes.

Unusual Tiredness

Feeling constantly worn out even with plenty of rest can sometimes be a sign of heart trouble.

Heart Palpitations

A racing or irregular heartbeat can be caused by stress or caffeine, but if it’s ongoing or paired with dizziness, speak to your doctor.

At Soleil Health, our GPs work closely with visiting cardiologists from Access Cardiology, supported by on-site cardiac testing. This coordinated approach means your concerns can be assessed promptly and specialist care arranged when needed.

As symptoms can be mild or even absent altogether, regular heart health check-ups are an important way to safeguard your wellbeing.

At our Cottesloe clinic, you can book a same-day GP appointment and, if required, access seamless cardiology care under one roof.

Take the next step for your heart health today and book an appointment with our team.