You Might Feel Fine—But Your Heart Could Be Struggling Quietly
That’s the urgent warning from renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Jeremy London. Unlike the dramatic scenes of sudden chest pain and collapse we often imagine, some of the most dangerous heart issues start with subtle symptoms—signs many people dismiss or don’t even notice.
In a recent discussion, Dr. London revealed three often-overlooked warning signals that your heart might be weaker than you realize. Ignoring them, he cautions, could have fatal consequences.
Three Quiet Signs Your Heart Needs Attention
Dr. London points to these key symptoms as potential red flags:
Swollen or puffy legs and ankles
Difficulty breathing while lying flat
Shortness of breath during mild activity, like walking around the block
“These symptoms suggest your heart may not be pumping effectively,” Dr. London explains. “If you’re noticing any of these, it’s important not to brush them off.”
How Doctors Check Heart Strength
To understand how well your heart is performing, physicians often rely on an echocardiogram—a painless ultrasound that shows how the heart moves and pumps blood.
A crucial number from this test is the ejection fraction, which measures the percentage of blood your heart pushes out with each beat. A healthy heart usually pumps about 65-70%. When that number drops significantly, it can be a warning sign of heart failure or weakened heart muscle.
Why Heart Strength Matters—Especially Before Surgery
Dr. London stresses that in any surgical procedure, especially cardiac surgery, how strong your heart is plays a pivotal role in recovery and survival. “Patients with robust heart function bounce back faster and have fewer complications,” he says.
Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Heart
Taking care of your heart isn’t just about skipping fries or quitting smoking. Dr. London recommends a well-rounded approach: quality sleep, stress control, keeping your digestion and dental health in check, and regular physical activity.
It might sound cliché, but the Talking Heads’ lyric, “Born with a weak heart, I guess I must be having fun,” isn’t exactly a motto to live by. Instead, think of exercise as your heart’s best friend—a way to build strength and resilience while lowering stress.
Listen to Your Heart—Before It’s Too Late
If you’re experiencing swollen legs, shortness of breath lying down, or breathlessness during light activity, don’t delay. Early evaluation can catch heart issues before they become life-threatening.
Dr. London’s message is clear: your heart speaks softly but profoundly. Pay attention. Get checked. And take steps to keep your heart strong—it’s the most vital muscle you’ll ever have.
In Summary:
Heart trouble doesn’t always announce itself with fanfare. Instead, subtle signs like swelling and breathlessness can be your body’s quiet cry for help. With tools like the echocardiogram, doctors can detect weakened heart function early.
Prioritize holistic health—sleep, stress management, exercise, and regular medical checkups—to safeguard your heart. If any warning signs appear, act promptly. Your heart’s strength today shapes your tomorrow.