2. Unusual shortness of breath

Struggling to catch your breath after mild effort, such as walking upstairs, may point to insufficient oxygen circulation due to narrowed arteries.

A stressed heart has difficulty keeping up with demand, and this can even cause breathing difficulties when resting or lying down.

In advanced stages, people may wake up at night gasping or need to sleep propped up. This signals that the heart is struggling to deliver enough blood, even to the lungs.

3. Chronic, unexplained fatigue

Fatigue linked to poor circulation is deep and persistent—it doesn’t improve with sleep. It’s not simple tiredness but complete exhaustion, making basic tasks feel overwhelming.

This occurs because when oxygen delivery drops, your body prioritizes vital organs and reduces energy elsewhere.

This kind of fatigue is often overlooked or blamed on age or stress, but if it continues unchecked, it can significantly affect your daily life.

4. Pain or cramping in the legs

Discomfort while walking, often felt as cramping or heaviness in the legs, is a sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD). This happens when leg arteries are narrowed and can’t supply enough oxygen during activity.

The pain typically subsides with rest but may worsen over time. The specific location of the pain—calves, thighs, or buttocks—can reveal where the blockage is. PAD is also a sign of widespread atherosclerosis, including in the heart and brain.

5. Sudden sweating or nausea

Unexpected sweating, even without physical exertion, can indicate heart stress. When oxygen is lacking, your nervous system may release adrenaline, leading to a cold sweat and rapid heartbeat.

Your body may also pull blood from the digestive system, causing nausea or vomiting. While these symptoms are easy to mistake for stomach issues, they become more serious when paired with chest discomfort or breathlessness.

6. Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

A fluttering or racing heart can mean the heart isn’t getting enough oxygen. This may disturb the heart’s rhythm, causing arrhythmias.

If these irregular beats persist or come with other symptoms like fatigue or pain, they should be assessed immediately.

7. High blood pressure

Often silent and unnoticed, high blood pressure happens when arteries narrow and the heart must pump harder.

Over time, this weakens the heart and damages vessels, leading to severe problems like strokes or heart attacks. The only way to detect it early is through regular checks.

8. Swollen legs or ankles

When the heart can’t pump properly, blood may pool in your lower body, causing swelling. This can be uncomfortable and worsen over time. It’s also often linked with fatigue and breathlessness.

9. Changes in skin color or temperature

Cold, pale, or bluish hands and feet mean poor circulation. This occurs because your body redirects blood to core organs when resources are low. It’s a strong sign of PAD and signals overall artery disease.

Understanding these symptoms helps you take action early and protect your heart health.