While heart disease has traditionally been associated with older adults, particularly those over 60, increasingly sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits mean it can now affect people in their 40s or even 30s.

In young people, early warning signs of heart problems are often subtle and not as obvious as chest pain or shortness of breath. These silent symptoms can be difficult to recognize, easily mistaken for other conditions. Early detection is crucial for timely intervention and management, preventing serious complications.

Unusual, persistent fatigue is a potential indicator of heart issues. While feeling tired after a long day is normal, excessive fatigue lasting for weeks despite adequate rest may signal the heart's inability to pump blood efficiently. This reduced oxygen supply to muscles and organs can cause unexplained tiredness, leaving individuals feeling weak and drained.

Those with underlying heart problems often experience greater exhaustion during everyday activities compared to healthy individuals. This level of fatigue differs significantly from normal tiredness and should not be ignored.

Unexplained indigestion or heartburn can be another subtle sign. Undiagnosed heart problems often manifest as mild stomach discomfort, accompanied by nausea and indigestion, occurring randomly without any apparent cause. Reduced blood flow to the heart can mimic digestive issues. This is particularly noteworthy in people in their 30s, especially those with no prior history of heartburn who suddenly experience frequent episodes.

Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or upper back can also indicate heart trouble. Heart problems don't always cause chest pain. Instead, individuals may experience mild pain and tightness in the jaw, neck, shoulders, or upper back, often dismissed as muscle strain, stress, or poor posture. Recurring tightness or heaviness in the chest, however, warrants further investigation for potential heart disease.

Shortness of breath during normal activities is another warning sign. Strain on the heart can cause shortness of breath during everyday tasks previously performed without exertion, such as short walks or climbing stairs. This occurs when the heart struggles to pump sufficient blood, leading to breathing difficulties even with minimal activity. Sometimes, this shortness of breath may occur without accompanying chest pain or other noticeable symptoms.

Dizziness and fainting, especially during sudden movements or exercise, can also signal heart problems. This happens when the heart can't supply enough blood to the brain. Irregular heartbeats or arterial blockages are common culprits, and this symptom should not be ignored. Individuals experiencing these signs should seek medical attention, particularly if they have high blood pressure, diabetes, smoke, are obese, or have a family history of heart disease.

Bao Bao (According to Asian Heart Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic)