Doctor Tran Quoc Viet, from the Department of Cardiology at Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic, stated that cardiovascular disease historically appeared mainly in individuals over 50. However, in recent years, the incidence of cardiovascular disease in young people is increasing. This trend is attributed to sedentary lifestyles, high-fat diets, chronic stress, and smoking. Cardiovascular disease often progresses silently, with initial signs that are unclear, leading many young people to overlook them.

Transient chest pain

Chest pain is the most common symptom of cardiovascular disease. However, in young individuals, symptoms are often atypical and less severe than in older adults. Instead of distinct pain, many experience only mild chest tightness, transient pressure, or pain during exertion that then subsides. Doctor Viet noted that many young people often disregard these initial signs, assuming they are too young for heart disease, which leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Mild shortness of breath during physical activity

Many individuals quickly feel fatigued when climbing stairs, jogging, or engaging in light physical activity, but they often attribute this to insufficient exercise. Shortness of breath during exertion, particularly when symptoms recur, can indicate early coronary artery disease or initial heart failure. Some instances of heart failure, stemming from abnormal heart muscle and unrelated to factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes, also frequently manifest in young people.

Rapid heartbeat, palpitations

Palpitations and a rapid heartbeat are often attributed to stress or insufficient sleep. However, heart rhythm disorders can also affect young people. These conditions are among the causes of sudden death if not detected early.

Transient dizziness and lightheadedness often resolve on their own, making them easy to overlook, but they can also signal cardiovascular disease. *Photo: Ly Nguyen*

Persistent fatigue with no clear cause

This symptom is frequently overlooked because young people often assume it results from overwork, insufficient sleep, or stress. However, numerous cases of heart disease in young individuals manifest with persistent fatigue, diminished physical capacity, or a feeling of exhaustion.

Transient dizziness, lightheadedness

This symptom typically appears briefly and resolves spontaneously, making it easy to overlook. The underlying cause is often related to inefficient heart pumping or a heart rhythm disorder.

Doctor Viet advises young people to undergo regular cardiovascular check-ups rather than waiting for symptoms. Adults should monitor their blood pressure and cholesterol, which are early risk factors for cardiovascular disease. If any unusual signs emerge, individuals should not be complacent but should consult a doctor immediately.

Ly Nguyen