A leading cardiologist has warned that a seemingly harmless symptom often mistaken for indigestion may be a critical sign of heart disease, particularly if it worsens with physical activity. The caution comes as cardiovascular disease remains one of the world’s top killers, claiming an estimated 20 million lives each year.
Dr. Roy Jogiya, Chief Medical Adviser at Heart Research UK and Consultant Cardiologist at Kingston and St Thomas’ Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in London, has urged the public to pay attention to early warning signs that may be easy to overlook.
“As a cardiologist, I often see patients who were unaware their symptoms were related to heart disease,” said Dr. Jogiya. “A number believed they were merely exhausted or under stress. Some even thought that their symptoms were an inevitable aspect of growing older.”
Among the most common symptoms he encounters is chest discomfort, though not the dramatic chest-clutching pain often portrayed in the media, as told to The Mirror US.
“The most common symptom I encounter is chest discomfort. Rarely is it the intense, squeezing chest pain depicted in media,” he explained. “Rather, individuals report sensations of pressure, tightness, weightiness, or sometimes a burning sensation. A few liken it to the feeling of indigestion.”
One crucial indicator that the discomfort may be heart-related is its pattern. “What’s important is that it usually gets worse with movement and eases with rest – a key sign that the heart may be struggling to get enough blood,” he said.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Dr. Jogiya emphasized the importance of not ignoring persistent or unusual symptoms.
“Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes, worsens with effort or physical activity, or is accompanied by nausea, sweating, or breathlessness requires urgent attention – don’t wait,” he urged. Even vague or mild symptoms that linger for days or weeks, especially if new, should be checked.
Other warning signs include:
- Swollen ankles or legs
- Breathlessness, especially when lying flat or during light activity
- Palpitations or a racing heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting spells
Who Is Most at Risk?
While age is a factor, Dr. Jogiya warned that heart disease can affect younger adults as well. Key risk groups include people with:
- A family history of heart issues
- High blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes
- South Asian or Black heritage
- A history of smoking
- Women over 40 or post-menopause
- Poor diet or low physical activity levels
How to Lower Your Risk
Dr. Jogiya stressed that prevention is within reach:
- Walk briskly for 30 minutes on most days
- Cut down on salt, sugar, and processed foods
- Prioritize sleep and manage stress
- Quit smoking
- Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol
- Stay socially active and mentally engaged
“Even small, consistent changes can make a big difference over time,” he said. “Lifestyle changes really do work, especially when started early.”