A London cardiologist has warned that some of the early signs of heart problems can appear in subtle ways, meaning many people ignore them until the condition becomes more serious. While chest pain is often seen as the classic warning sign of heart disease, experts say many patients experience quieter symptoms first, which are frequently mistaken for stress, ageing or being out of shape.
Subtle Warning Signs
Dr Francesco Lo Monaco, a private cardiologist in London, said recognising these less obvious warning signs early can make a significant difference. He said: “Heart problems do not always begin with dramatic symptoms. In many cases, the body gives more subtle warning signs first, but people often dismiss them because they seem harmless or unrelated.”
Unusual Breathlessness
One of the most overlooked signs is becoming unusually short of breath during normal daily activities. This can happen because the heart is struggling to pump blood efficiently around the body. Dr Lo Monaco said: “People often put this down to getting older, being unfit or simply tired. But if someone notices they are suddenly struggling more with stairs, walking or light activity, it is something that should be assessed.” He said breathlessness that is new, worsening or disproportionate to activity level is particularly important not to ignore.
Persistent Fatigue
Feeling unusually tired for long periods can also be linked to heart problems, especially when it appears without a clear explanation. “When the heart is not functioning optimally, the body may not be getting the oxygen it needs efficiently,” Dr Lo Monaco explained. “That can leave people feeling persistently fatigued even if they are sleeping normally.” He added that this symptom is often missed because tiredness is so common in modern life.
Mild Chest Discomfort or Unexplained Left Arm Pain
While severe chest pain is widely recognised as a medical emergency, milder discomfort or an unexplained left arm pain is often overlooked. This can include tightness, pressure, heaviness or an unusual sensation in the chest that comes and goes. Dr Lo Monaco said: “Not all heart-related symptoms are intense. Some people experience very subtle discomfort that they dismiss as indigestion, muscle strain or anxiety.” He said symptoms that persist, recur or occur during exertion should always be checked.
When to Seek Help
Experts stress that these symptoms do not automatically mean heart disease, but patterns and persistence matter. “If symptoms are new, worsening or don’t feel normal for you, it’s important to seek medical advice rather than ignore them,” Dr Lo Monaco said. “Early assessment can help identify problems before they become more serious.” He added that prevention and awareness remain key when it comes to cardiovascular health. “The earlier heart issues are recognised, the better the opportunities for treatment and long-term outcomes,” he said.
