Heart disease remains the number one cause of death all over the world. While a few decades back, heart disease was said to occur in only senior citizens (plus 60), it is now happening to much younger individuals, even 30 year-olds! Even though regular check ups are important, there are a couple of other signs that your body gives, when it is suffering from a silent heart condition. This simple 3 second heart test is extremely helpful, since it can detect underlying heart conditions, and that too at the right time. Let’s learn more…The 3-second testThis test needs to be performed as soon as you wake up. Here’s what you need to do (source: sygenis.nature)Wake up and sit on the bedRaise both arms above your headHold for 3 secondsPay attention to these thingsTightness in the chestNumb fingersSudden fatigue or lightheadedness
If you get any of these, it could signify circulation problems, and it will be a good idea to get checked out…Other symptoms of heart diseaseThis test apart, there are a couple of warning signs you can watch out at home too. If you are experiencing these 3, rush to a doctor immediately…Chest pain and tightnessOne of the most common warning signs of heart blockage is extreme chest pain or tightness. This pain (which is not severe) often feels like pressure, squeezing, heaviness, or a tight band around the chest. People usually describe it as “an elephant sitting on the chest”. This discomfort usually occurs when your heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood because of narrowed arteries.This chest pain often improves with rest, or when you are lying down. If you notice chest pain or tightness that comes on during physical activity or emotional stress and then gets better when you rest, it is a red flag for heart blockage. This type of pain is called angina and signals that your heart is struggling to get enough blood while pumping.Pain that radiates to the jaw, arm, or neckHeart blockage doesn’t always cause pain only in the chest. Sometimes, the pain can spread or radiate to other parts of the upper body. Common areas include the jaw (especially the lower left side), left arm, neck, shoulder, back, or even the upper stomach. This radiating pain happens because the nerves in these areas share pathways with the heart, so the brain interprets the pain signals as coming from these places.If you experience this type of pain, especially alongside chest tightness or shortness of breath, it is a serious warning sign. The pain may feel like a toothache in the jaw or a heavy ache in the arm.Shortness of breath and fatigueAnother symptom to watch for is shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or emotional stress. When the heart does not get enough blood, it cannot pump efficiently, which can make you feel breathless. You may also feel unusually tired or weak, even with normal activities.
These symptoms occur because your heart muscle is not receiving enough oxygen to meet your body’s demands. If you notice these signs along with chest discomfort, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice.