Doctor's warning over five symptoms of 'silent killer' that's increasing in younger people

A doctor has issued a warning over five symptoms of the 'silent killer' that’s increasing in younger people.

Let’s be honest, being young often means we feel invincible to all sorts. We’re not quite as scared of things that we probably should be, and we don’t necessarily worry about all aspects of our health.

However, experts suggest that we should be paying better attention to our bodies as they warn heart disease is no longer as confined to the older generations.

Recent statistics found there are 900,000 people in the UK affected by bad heart health, and it’s generally caught too late to prevent lasting damage.

That’s why it’s so important you stay on top of any symptoms to get the diagnosis early.

The doctor’s warning

Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation and Consultant Cardiologist, has spoken out on the need for a wake-up call for younger demographics when it comes to heart failure and diseases.

“Many young adults believe they're invincible," she told the Mirror. "But without intervention, these silent issues can snowball into life-threatening emergencies."

The NHS explain heart failure means the heart is unable to pump blood around the body properly. This usually happens due to heart becoming too weak or stiff. Heart failure is a long-term condition that tends to get gradually worse over time and while it cannot usually be cured, the symptoms can be controlled for many years.

Not recognising and addressing the following symptoms early can lead to severe consequences like heart attacks or strokes.

Unexplained fatigue

If you’re feeling like you’re constantly tired, even despite after having a good sleep, it could indicate your heart is struggling to effectively pump blood.

Irregular heartbeat

If you’re experiencing a racing heart or skipping beats, especially when you’re not exercising or stressed, you should seek medical attention.

Shortness of breath

If something as simple as climbing the stairs leave you feeling out of breath, then you could have an underlying heart issue going on.

Jaw or back pain

While you might not necessarily make the link, having discomfort in these areas could be a sign of restricted blood flow to the heart.

Persistent indigestion or heartburn

Although these things are typically linked to gastrointestinal issues, chronic discomfort in the upper abdomen may be another red flag of problems with the heart.

You should see a GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure. If you have sudden or very severe symptoms, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E as soon as possible.