Heart disease is a major cause of death in the UK and worldwide. More than 7.6million people in the UK are living with heart or circulatory diseases, according to the British Heart Foundation.

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Sophie LawDeputy Editor Spare Time

Heart disease is a general term for a number of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels.

It’s a leading cause of death in the UK and globally, with over 7.6 million people in the UK living with heart or circulatory diseases, according to the British Heart Foundation. It’s also estimated that one in 12 people worldwide are affected by the disease.

Heart disease is often caused by fatty deposits in the arteries, increasing the risk of blood clots. This can also result in damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes. The most common type of heart disease is coronary heart disease (CHD), which occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries.

However, symptoms of heart disease can vary greatly, and some individuals may not recognise the warning signs. A recent survey of 500 UK adults by Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor revealed that only 46% were aware that leg swelling could be a symptom.

With February marking National Heart Month, Dr Bhavini Shah, GP at Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, has detailed these symptoms and offered practical advice on reducing your risk.

Symptoms of heart disease include:

• chest pain
• shortness of breath
• extreme fatigue
• irregular heartbeat
• swelling of the legs

Chest pain, which can feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness, is a common symptom and could indicate a heart attack, making it crucial to call 999 immediately. Of those surveyed, 80% identified chest pain as a symptom, making it the most recognised overall.

In addition, 77% of people correctly identified shortness of breath as a symptom. Dr Shah explains that if the heart isn’t pumping enough blood throughout the body, fluid may build up in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and leading to shortness of breath.

Irregular heart rhythms can also be an indication of heart disease, which 70% of people were aware of. While this might not be directly linked to a serious condition, it’s important to get this checked to understand any underlying issues.

Some 66% of surveyed respondents acknowledged that extreme fatigue can also be a symptom, making day-to-day activities or mild exercise exhausting. Dr Shah also says that leg swelling, medically known as oedema, is a less well-known symptom of heart disease and occurs when fluid builds up in the tissue.

This can worsen throughout the day. Less than half (46%) were aware of this.

If you have any of these symptoms and are concerned you may be at risk of a heart attack, it’s essential to dial 999. Additionally, seek medical attention from a GP.

How to reduce your risk of heart disease

Healthy diet

Eating healthily Reducing fat intake is an effective way to not only lower your risk of coronary heart disease but also help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The NHS suggests a diet rich in fibre and low in fat, incorporating at least five portions of fruit and veg, as well as whole grains like oats, rye and brown rice. They also recommend keeping salt intake below 6g per day and avoiding saturated fats which can hike up cholesterol levels.

Regular exercise

Dr Shah encourages staying active to ward off heart disease. The British Heart Foundation states that regular physical activity can cut your risk of heart disease by up to 35%.

Regular exercise also helps control blood pressure and lower cholesterol. It’s advised to clock up at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.

Whether it’s a brisk walk, bike ride, swim or fitness class, finding an activity you enjoy could help you stick to a healthy lifestyle. Quitting smoking is another crucial step.

Stop smoking

Action on Smoking and Health charity explains that smoking cigarettes damages the lining of the arteries, including those around the heart. A chemical known as acrolein hampers the body’s ability to process cholesterol, leading to higher levels in the bloodstream.

Cut down on alcohol

Cutting down on alcohol is also advised

Another method to lower your risk of heart disease is by moderating your alcohol intake. According to NHS guidelines, both men and women should limit their consumption to no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over at least three days rather than consumed in one go.

There’s a clear link between excessive drinking and high blood pressure. Regularly exceeding the recommended 14 units a week over a decade can heighten your risk of heart disease or stroke.

Get enough sleep

Quality sleep is also crucial. A lack of sleep could potentially increase your risk of heart disease.

A healthy adult requires between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, while teenagers, children, and infants need anywhere from eight to 16 hours. Small yet manageable adjustments to your daily routine can significantly improve your heart health.

More information is available at The British Heart Foundation

Resource – Bristol Live