Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

How Just 6 Minutes Of Reading Can Lower Stress And Boost Mental Health

Reading Fiction Can Change Your Perspective And Your Mental Health

Reading non-fiction books is not my cup of tea, while they are informative and important to read, when I read for pleasure, I want to immerse myself in a world that could never be. Reading fiction books like the <span>Harry Potter</span> series, <span>Percy Jackson</span> books and others like the Dragon Rider, were the reason I enjoyed reading. Often using these books as a means to escape difficult feelings, I never even realized how reading these books transformed my <span>mental health</span>, along with my perspective. 

Reading plays an important role for your mental health; books offer numerous advantages for one's mental well-being. Whether the preference lies with short stories or lengthy novels, colorful picture books or digital formats, various forms of literature can provide valuable benefits. This piece will explore several key reasons why reading is so beneficial for mental health. 

<h2>How Does <span rel="noindex">Reading Impact Mental Health</span>?</h2>

According to a 2022 PLoS One study, reading fiction can improve people's mental well-being. The researchers conducted five different studies to see how various ways of engaging with fiction affect individuals. These methods includes recalling past fiction reading experiences, being instructed to read fiction, discussing fiction in comparison to non-fiction, and discussing different types of fiction. 

The research shows that books had a positive influence on people's mood and emotions. However, it appears that simply reading fiction might not lead to an immediate improvement in mental well-being. The brain seems to require a period of processing and understanding the story before positive effects can be observed. 

<h2>Ways Reading Can Affect Your Mental Health</h2>

Mental Health First Aid England, a social enterprise that offers guidance and training for mental health in workspaces, explains that whether the preference lies with short stories or lengthy novels, colorful picture books or digital formats, various forms of literature can provide valuable benefits. Here are some ways it helps us. 

Reading captivating books brings joy and immersion, making time disappear. Finishing a good story can evoke sadness or eagerness for more, highlighting reading's positive impact.

Engrossing oneself in a book for just six minutes can significantly reduce stress by lowering heart rate and easing tension, outperforming other relaxation methods. 

Reading offers an escape from the real world, providing a coping mechanism, especially in childhood. This immersion can be transformative, influencing how we interact with the world. 

Reading fiction enhances empathy, improving the ability to understand others' feelings and thoughts, temporarily boosting this crucial social skill. 

Lifelong cognitive activities like reading slow down memory loss and reduce mental decline in later life compared to less stimulating pursuits. 

<h4>Finding Support and Healing in Reading Groups </h4>

Discussing books in reading groups can significantly improve mental health, aiding concentration, emotional understanding, self-awareness, and meaningful discussions. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">Boost Your Sense of Control</span> and Offer a Safe Space </h4>

Discussing books fosters a sense of control and independence, benefiting mental well-being. It provides a positive and safe way to process challenging topics. 

Reading for pleasure in adolescence enhances academic performance, social engagement, and personal development, offering insights into adult life. 

Research confirms that reading increases intelligence, leading to a larger vocabulary, broader knowledge, and improved verbal skills.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Mental health

harry potter

percy jackson

boosting your intelligence research

boost your sense of control

Reading Fiction Can Change Your Mental health

Reading Impact Mental Health

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Reading non-fiction books is not my cup of tea, while they are informative and important to read, when I read for pleasure, I want to immerse myself in a world that could never be. Reading fiction books like the Harry Potter series, Percy Jackson books and others like the Dragon Rider, were the reason I enjoyed reading. Often using these books as a means to escape difficult feelings, I never even realized how reading these books transformed my mental health, along with my perspective. Reading plays an important role for your mental health; books offer numerous advantages for one's mental well-being. Whether the preference lies with short stories or lengthy novels, colorful picture books or digital formats, various forms of literature can provide valuable benefits. This piece will explore several key reasons why reading is so beneficial for mental health. How Does Reading Impact Mental Health?According to a 2022 PLoS One study, reading fiction can improve people's mental well-being. The researchers conducted five different studies to see how various ways of engaging with fiction affect individuals. These methods includes recalling past fiction reading experiences, being instructed to read fiction, discussing fiction in comparison to non-fiction, and discussing different types of fiction. The research shows that books had a positive influence on people's mood and emotions. However, it appears that simply reading fiction might not lead to an immediate improvement in mental well-being. The brain seems to require a period of processing and understanding the story before positive effects can be observed. Ways Reading Can Affect Your Mental HealthMental Health First Aid England, a social enterprise that offers guidance and training for mental health in workspaces, explains that whether the preference lies with short stories or lengthy novels, colorful picture books or digital formats, various forms of literature can provide valuable benefits. Here are some ways it helps us. Reading captivating books brings joy and immersion, making time disappear. Finishing a good story can evoke sadness or eagerness for more, highlighting reading's positive impact. Reading as a Stress Buster Engrossing oneself in a book for just six minutes can significantly reduce stress by lowering heart rate and easing tension, outperforming other relaxation methods. Acts as a Coping Mechanism Reading offers an escape from the real world, providing a coping mechanism, especially in childhood. This immersion can be transformative, influencing how we interact with the world. Building Empathy Reading fiction enhances empathy, improving the ability to understand others' feelings and thoughts, temporarily boosting this crucial social skill. Keeping Your Brain Sharp Lifelong cognitive activities like reading slow down memory loss and reduce mental decline in later life compared to less stimulating pursuits. Finding Support and Healing in Reading Groups Discussing books in reading groups can significantly improve mental health, aiding concentration, emotional understanding, self-awareness, and meaningful discussions. Boost Your Sense of Control and Offer a Safe Space Discussing books fosters a sense of control and independence, benefiting mental well-being. It provides a positive and safe way to process challenging topics. Understanding Adulthood Reading for pleasure in adolescence enhances academic performance, social engagement, and personal development, offering insights into adult life. Boosting Your Intelligence Research confirms that reading increases intelligence, leading to a larger vocabulary, broader knowledge, and improved verbal skills.

reading fiction can change your perspective and your mental health

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Aging is not a linear process as many people think it is. While your chronological age may say a certain number, the way you live could cause you to be biologically older. Our chronological age is based on the number of years we have lived; however, our biological age could be higher or lower, based on how healthy our lifestyle choices are. 

As we know, till a certain age, our body keeps growing and then comes to a halt. Studies like the 2013 study published in the Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment journal explain that our brain’s development is not complete until the age of 25, especially the prefrontal cortex. Like every living being, if we are developing, we will eventually deteriorate as well. However, at what age does this deterioration begin? 

A groundbreaking study published in Nature Medicine found that a simple blood test can reliably estimate a person's age by analyzing the levels of hundreds of proteins. This "proteomic clock" offers a fascinating insight: biological aging isn't a smooth, linear process. Instead, it appears to accelerate in distinct phases. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Key Ages of Accelerated Aging</span> </h2>

The study identified three significant periods when aging seems to speed up, on average: <strong>around ages 34, 60, and 78.</strong> Notably, the research suggests that the average person begins to show signs of physical deterioration as early as 34 years old. Based on these findings, "adulthood" was categorized as 34 to 60 years, "late maturity" from 60 to 78 years, and "old age" from 78 years onward. 

To build this "proteomic clock," the scientists collected blood plasma (the liquid part of blood) from over 4,200 healthy people, ranging in age from 18 to 95. They used the information from more than half of these people to create their "clock." This clock was then able to correctly guess the age of the remaining people in the study. What's even more impressive is that they could make accurate age guesses using just 373 of the almost 3,000 proteins they first looked at. They even found that they could get a decent guess with as few as nine key proteins! 

The study also showed that people whose blood proteins made them seem biologically younger than their actual age also did better on tests that measured how well their brain and body worked. 

These findings have significant implications. This research suggests the potential for a blood test that could identify individuals who are biologically aging faster than their chronological age. Such individuals might be at a higher risk for age-related health issues like cardiovascular problems, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoarthritis earlier in life. 

Furthermore, this research offers hope for developing interventions that could potentially slow down this "proteomic clock," keeping people biologically younger for longer. While it may sound like science fiction, the same research team has previously shown that it's possible to rejuvenate an older mouse by infusing it with blood from a younger mouse, hinting at future anti-aging treatments. 

The discovery that the first burst of accelerated aging occurs in early mid-life, around age 34, is particularly intriguing, as it's well before the typical onset of noticeable aging signs and related health problems. 

Body Deterioration Age

age our body starts breaking down

Key Ages of Accelerated Aging

chronological aging

biological aging and real age

body age

Aging is not a linear process as many people think it is. While your chronological age may say a certain number, the way you live could cause you to be biologically older. Our chronological age is based on the number of years we have lived; however, our biological age could be higher or lower, based on how healthy our lifestyle choices are. As we know, till a certain age, our body keeps growing and then comes to a halt. Studies like the 2013 study published in the Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment journal explain that our brain’s development is not complete until the age of 25, especially the prefrontal cortex. Like every living being, if we are developing, we will eventually deteriorate as well. However, at what age does this deterioration begin? A groundbreaking study published in Nature Medicine found that a simple blood test can reliably estimate a person's age by analyzing the levels of hundreds of proteins. This "proteomic clock" offers a fascinating insight: biological aging isn't a smooth, linear process. Instead, it appears to accelerate in distinct phases. Key Ages of Accelerated Aging The study identified three significant periods when aging seems to speed up, on average: around ages 34, 60, and 78. Notably, the research suggests that the average person begins to show signs of physical deterioration as early as 34 years old. Based on these findings, "adulthood" was categorized as 34 to 60 years, "late maturity" from 60 to 78 years, and "old age" from 78 years onward. To build this "proteomic clock," the scientists collected blood plasma (the liquid part of blood) from over 4,200 healthy people, ranging in age from 18 to 95. They used the information from more than half of these people to create their "clock." This clock was then able to correctly guess the age of the remaining people in the study. What's even more impressive is that they could make accurate age guesses using just 373 of the almost 3,000 proteins they first looked at. They even found that they could get a decent guess with as few as nine key proteins! The study also showed that people whose blood proteins made them seem biologically younger than their actual age also did better on tests that measured how well their brain and body worked. What This Means for Our Future These findings have significant implications. This research suggests the potential for a blood test that could identify individuals who are biologically aging faster than their chronological age. Such individuals might be at a higher risk for age-related health issues like cardiovascular problems, Alzheimer's disease, and osteoarthritis earlier in life. Furthermore, this research offers hope for developing interventions that could potentially slow down this "proteomic clock," keeping people biologically younger for longer. While it may sound like science fiction, the same research team has previously shown that it's possible to rejuvenate an older mouse by infusing it with blood from a younger mouse, hinting at future anti-aging treatments. The discovery that the first burst of accelerated aging occurs in early mid-life, around age 34, is particularly intriguing, as it's well before the typical onset of noticeable aging signs and related health problems. 

what age does our body starts breaking down? body deterioration age may surprise you

Tanya Dutt

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When the <span>pregnancy</span> test turns positive, a flood of excitement, anticipation, and in many cases, anxiety sets in—not only for the mother-to-be, but also for her partner. When all eyes usually remain on the pregnant woman's body and mood, new research and anecdotal evidence are revealing an unexpected phenomenon: expectant fathers can experience physical and psychological changes that resemble <span>pregnancy symptoms</span>. This is a real phenomenon, referred to as <span>Couvade Syndrome</span> or sympathetic pregnancy—something that isn't imagined, but a valid and multifaceted reaction that's gaining international acclaim.

Couvade Syndrome is named from the French term couver, which means "to brood" or "incubate." It is a disorder where men develop pregnancy-like symptoms as their partner is pregnant. These symptoms start in the first trimester, decrease in the second trimester, and then show up again in the third trimester—tightly following the path of the mother.

Though not technically classified as a medical or psychological illness, Couvade Syndrome has been noted through various cultures and societies. In certain tribal rituals of old, men would ritually perform labor to show support for their mate—a ritualistic forerunner to the psychosomatic phenomenon now clinically debated as an empathetic, stress-related, or hormonal response. 

<h2>Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Couvade Syndrome</h2>

Think it's all in their minds? Think again. Pregnant men with Couvade Syndrome describe a remarkable array of physical and mental symptoms:

<ul><li>Nausea and vomiting: A surprising similarity to morning sickness</li><li>Gastrointestinal problems: Bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhea or constipation</li><li>Changes in appetite and weight: Some put on weight (aka "sympathy weight"), others can lose their appetite completely</li><li>Sleep problems and fatigue: Insomnia or constant drowsiness</li><li>Back pain and leg cramps</li><li>Toothaches and skin rashes</li><li>Mood swings, irritability, anxiety and depression</li></ul>

Up to 38% of expectant fathers, or the first-time father in one international study, experienced over 19 symptoms when they found out that their partner was pregnant. The reasons are not certain yet but the most commonly accepted theories are psychosomatic reactions, hormonal changes (such as reduced testosterone and increased prolactin), and psychological mechanisms like "compathy," shared pain or emotional distress.

Surprisingly, yes—more than you might have guessed. Incidence rates of Couvade syndrome also differ widely based on the nation and study criteria, from 11% up to a whopping 65% worldwide. In the United States alone, estimates suggest that between 25% to 97% of expectant fathers could experience it. The rate in Poland is as high as 72%, with the United Kingdom and Australia reporting lower rates, at between 25% and 31%. Other nations, such as Sweden, Thailand, and China, also register considerable prevalence. These differences indicate that although the phenomenon may be subjective and culturally influenced, sympathetic pregnancy is certainly no rarity.

The scientific community hasn't yet determined a single determining cause of Couvade syndrome, but some of the most current theories provide interesting explanations. One explanation is empathy and emotional attachment—men who are strongly bonded to their pregnant partner might unconsciously pick up and mirror their partner's bodily stress. Hormonal changes have also been found, with research reporting decreased testosterone and raised levels of prolactin and cortisol in some prospective fathers, which can cause mood swings, lethargy, or other physical symptoms. Stress and anxiety, especially for first-time dads, can also be a factor, with the prospect of new responsibility bearing down on them physically. Also, shifting psychosocial expectations of fatherhood could be a factor. As social norms change and promote more engaged, emotionally responsive parenting, men might internalize and replicate facets of pregnancy more strongly than generations past.

Dads today are not hanging back in the wings anymore. From attending prenatal visits to taking birthing classes and carrying out skin-to-skin contact after birth, contemporary dads are actively involved. This greater engagement may be amplifying their emotional and physiological identification with pregnancy, a component of couvade symptoms' prevalence.

Anthropologists consider that this change is a development of classic gender roles and possibly the reason couvade syndrome is reported more often today than in earlier generations.

<h2>Coping with and Managing Couvade Symptoms</h2>

There is no official treatment of Couvade Syndrome, but there are methods that can ease it:

Stay informed: Taking prenatal classes and reading parenting books can prepare expectant fathers better.

Communicate: Have open talks with your partner concerning your feelings and physical changes. You can be met with mutual understanding instead of confusion or dismissal.

Consult professionals: If symptoms become a cause of distress, talking to a psychologist or a medical doctor can provide insight and ways of coping.

Practice self-care: Regular exercise, meditation, and proper nutrition can help in coping with stress-related symptoms.

Lean on your support network: Don't be afraid to call on friends, family, or online networks of expectant dads.

While it is common, couvade syndrome usually goes unnoticed—dismissed as strange, overblown, or even manipulative behavior but defined as a real psychosomatic experience can affirm expectant dads and open the door to more honest, supportive dialogue throughout pregnancy.

Understanding that pregnancy impacts both partners—though differently—can promote mutual compassion, enhance communication, and cultivate deeper emotional connections on one of life's most transcendent paths.

Pregnancy could be an experience shared in ways we never thought possible. Couvade Syndrome, although yet to be fully comprehended, highlights the depth of emotion and changing role of modern dads.

pregnancy

pregnancy symptoms

couvade syndrome

sympathetic pregnancy symptoms

pregnancy symptoms in men

dads during pregnancy

male pregnancy symptoms

expectant fathers health

couvade syndrome facts

When the pregnancy test turns positive, a flood of excitement, anticipation, and in many cases, anxiety sets in—not only for the mother-to-be, but also for her partner. When all eyes usually remain on the pregnant woman's body and mood, new research and anecdotal evidence are revealing an unexpected phenomenon: expectant fathers can experience physical and psychological changes that resemble pregnancy symptoms. This is a real phenomenon, referred to as Couvade Syndrome or sympathetic pregnancy—something that isn't imagined, but a valid and multifaceted reaction that's gaining international acclaim.What Is Couvade Syndrome?Couvade Syndrome is named from the French term couver, which means "to brood" or "incubate." It is a disorder where men develop pregnancy-like symptoms as their partner is pregnant. These symptoms start in the first trimester, decrease in the second trimester, and then show up again in the third trimester—tightly following the path of the mother.Though not technically classified as a medical or psychological illness, Couvade Syndrome has been noted through various cultures and societies. In certain tribal rituals of old, men would ritually perform labor to show support for their mate—a ritualistic forerunner to the psychosomatic phenomenon now clinically debated as an empathetic, stress-related, or hormonal response. Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Couvade SyndromeThink it's all in their minds? Think again. Pregnant men with Couvade Syndrome describe a remarkable array of physical and mental symptoms:Nausea and vomiting: A surprising similarity to morning sicknessGastrointestinal problems: Bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhea or constipationChanges in appetite and weight: Some put on weight (aka "sympathy weight"), others can lose their appetite completelySleep problems and fatigue: Insomnia or constant drowsinessBack pain and leg crampsToothaches and skin rashesMood swings, irritability, anxiety and depressionUp to 38% of expectant fathers, or the first-time father in one international study, experienced over 19 symptoms when they found out that their partner was pregnant. The reasons are not certain yet but the most commonly accepted theories are psychosomatic reactions, hormonal changes (such as reduced testosterone and increased prolactin), and psychological mechanisms like "compathy," shared pain or emotional distress.Is Couvade Syndrome Common?Surprisingly, yes—more than you might have guessed. Incidence rates of Couvade syndrome also differ widely based on the nation and study criteria, from 11% up to a whopping 65% worldwide. In the United States alone, estimates suggest that between 25% to 97% of expectant fathers could experience it. The rate in Poland is as high as 72%, with the United Kingdom and Australia reporting lower rates, at between 25% and 31%. Other nations, such as Sweden, Thailand, and China, also register considerable prevalence. These differences indicate that although the phenomenon may be subjective and culturally influenced, sympathetic pregnancy is certainly no rarity.What Causes Couvade Syndrome?The scientific community hasn't yet determined a single determining cause of Couvade syndrome, but some of the most current theories provide interesting explanations. One explanation is empathy and emotional attachment—men who are strongly bonded to their pregnant partner might unconsciously pick up and mirror their partner's bodily stress. Hormonal changes have also been found, with research reporting decreased testosterone and raised levels of prolactin and cortisol in some prospective fathers, which can cause mood swings, lethargy, or other physical symptoms. Stress and anxiety, especially for first-time dads, can also be a factor, with the prospect of new responsibility bearing down on them physically. Also, shifting psychosocial expectations of fatherhood could be a factor. As social norms change and promote more engaged, emotionally responsive parenting, men might internalize and replicate facets of pregnancy more strongly than generations past.Dads today are not hanging back in the wings anymore. From attending prenatal visits to taking birthing classes and carrying out skin-to-skin contact after birth, contemporary dads are actively involved. This greater engagement may be amplifying their emotional and physiological identification with pregnancy, a component of couvade symptoms' prevalence.Anthropologists consider that this change is a development of classic gender roles and possibly the reason couvade syndrome is reported more often today than in earlier generations.Coping with and Managing Couvade SymptomsThere is no official treatment of Couvade Syndrome, but there are methods that can ease it:Stay informed: Taking prenatal classes and reading parenting books can prepare expectant fathers better.Communicate: Have open talks with your partner concerning your feelings and physical changes. You can be met with mutual understanding instead of confusion or dismissal.Consult professionals: If symptoms become a cause of distress, talking to a psychologist or a medical doctor can provide insight and ways of coping.Practice self-care: Regular exercise, meditation, and proper nutrition can help in coping with stress-related symptoms.Lean on your support network: Don't be afraid to call on friends, family, or online networks of expectant dads.While it is common, couvade syndrome usually goes unnoticed—dismissed as strange, overblown, or even manipulative behavior but defined as a real psychosomatic experience can affirm expectant dads and open the door to more honest, supportive dialogue throughout pregnancy.Understanding that pregnancy impacts both partners—though differently—can promote mutual compassion, enhance communication, and cultivate deeper emotional connections on one of life's most transcendent paths.Pregnancy could be an experience shared in ways we never thought possible. Couvade Syndrome, although yet to be fully comprehended, highlights the depth of emotion and changing role of modern dads.

can dads-to-be experience pregnancy symptoms too?

Heart Health Signs People Often Overlook That Can Causing Serious Problems

Worried About Heart Problems Before 60? Cardiologist Shares 10 Must-Know Rules

worried about heart problems before 60? cardiologist shares 10 must-know rules

Heart disease is a major problem throughout the world. Being one of the top killers globally, doctors often urge people to understand the symptoms and early signs of heart issues. While there are many emergency treatments people go for when a health situation like a heart attack, stroke, or blockage arises, it is best to take preventative measures as the results are better when you catch the issue early. 

When one says heart issues, people often picture a person feeling chest pains and heavy breathing. While there is one sign of deteriorating <span>heart health</span>, there are other more subtle signs as well. Here are some overlooked signs of heart health, according to the <span>British Heart Foundation</span> 

<h2>Swollen Ankles Can Signal Heart Trouble </h2>

Swollen ankles or feet can be a quiet but important sign that your heart isn't working as well as it should. If your heart isn't pumping efficiently, blood can build up in other parts of your body, causing fluid to collect. While swelling can also happen from standing a lot or other health issues, ongoing or unexplained swelling, especially with breathlessness or tiredness, might mean heart failure or circulation problems. If swelling continues or gets worse, it's vital to get medical advice. 

<h4>Stomach Pain: More Than Just Indigestion? </h4>

Sometimes, stomach pain can be a sign of heart issues, even though it's often mistaken for indigestion. Because these symptoms can feel like common stomach problems, they're often overlooked. If your stomach pain won't go away, happens when you exert yourself, or comes with breathlessness, tiredness, or sweating, it's important to see a doctor to rule out more serious concerns. 

<h4>Unexpected Sweating Can Be a Red Flag </h4>

Sweating a lot without a clear reason, like heat or exercise, can be an early warning sign of heart problems. If you start to feel hot and clammy along with chest pains, you should get urgent medical help right away. 

Leg pain or cramps in your calves could signal peripheral artery disease (PAD), where blood vessels in your legs are narrowed or blocked. This type of pain, especially during activity, means less blood is flowing to your muscles. Having PAD can increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. If you have ongoing leg pain or cramping during activity, talk to a healthcare professional. 

Arm pain can also be a key warning sign of a heart attack, often feeling like pain spreading from your chest to your arms. This can come with other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath. If you have unexplained arm pain with these signs, get medical help immediately. 

<h4>Persistent Tiredness: A Sign Your Heart Needs Checking </h4>

Constant fatigue, especially when you've had enough sleep and haven't overdone it, can be an early sign of poor heart health. If your heart isn't pumping well, your muscles and tissues get less oxygen-rich blood, making you feel constantly tired or weak. This is often noticeable during everyday activities that used to be easy, like climbing stairs. If you're unusually drained or have low energy often, consider a heart health check. There are even home tests available that can help you understand your heart age and risk factors. 

<h4>Palpitations and High Blood Pressure: Key Indicators </h4>

Frequent or severe palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering) can sometimes be harmless, but they might point to an underlying heart condition or an abnormal heart rhythm. One common abnormal rhythm, called atrial fibrillation, can increase your risk of a stroke. Pay attention to these feelings, especially if they come with dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, and seek medical advice to manage your heart health. 

High blood pressure is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease. If your blood pressure is too high, it can damage your arteries. You can often get free blood pressure checks at pharmacies to help assess your heart health 

Heart Health

british heart foundation

Heart Health Signs

Heart Health Signs People Overlook

People are overlooking heart health

Swollen Ankles and heart issues

Heart health signs you shouldn't ignore

signs you shouldn't ignore

Heart disease is a major problem throughout the world. Being one of the top killers globally, doctors often urge people to understand the symptoms and early signs of heart issues. While there are many emergency treatments people go for when a health situation like a heart attack, stroke, or blockage arises, it is best to take preventative measures as the results are better when you catch the issue early. When one says heart issues, people often picture a person feeling chest pains and heavy breathing. While there is one sign of deteriorating heart health, there are other more subtle signs as well. Here are some overlooked signs of heart health, according to the British Heart Foundation Swollen Ankles Can Signal Heart Trouble Swollen ankles or feet can be a quiet but important sign that your heart isn't working as well as it should. If your heart isn't pumping efficiently, blood can build up in other parts of your body, causing fluid to collect. While swelling can also happen from standing a lot or other health issues, ongoing or unexplained swelling, especially with breathlessness or tiredness, might mean heart failure or circulation problems. If swelling continues or gets worse, it's vital to get medical advice. Stomach Pain: More Than Just Indigestion? Sometimes, stomach pain can be a sign of heart issues, even though it's often mistaken for indigestion. Because these symptoms can feel like common stomach problems, they're often overlooked. If your stomach pain won't go away, happens when you exert yourself, or comes with breathlessness, tiredness, or sweating, it's important to see a doctor to rule out more serious concerns. Unexpected Sweating Can Be a Red Flag Sweating a lot without a clear reason, like heat or exercise, can be an early warning sign of heart problems. If you start to feel hot and clammy along with chest pains, you should get urgent medical help right away. Arm and Leg Pain Leg pain or cramps in your calves could signal peripheral artery disease (PAD), where blood vessels in your legs are narrowed or blocked. This type of pain, especially during activity, means less blood is flowing to your muscles. Having PAD can increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. If you have ongoing leg pain or cramping during activity, talk to a healthcare professional. Arm pain can also be a key warning sign of a heart attack, often feeling like pain spreading from your chest to your arms. This can come with other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath. If you have unexplained arm pain with these signs, get medical help immediately. Persistent Tiredness: A Sign Your Heart Needs Checking Constant fatigue, especially when you've had enough sleep and haven't overdone it, can be an early sign of poor heart health. If your heart isn't pumping well, your muscles and tissues get less oxygen-rich blood, making you feel constantly tired or weak. This is often noticeable during everyday activities that used to be easy, like climbing stairs. If you're unusually drained or have low energy often, consider a heart health check. There are even home tests available that can help you understand your heart age and risk factors. Palpitations and High Blood Pressure: Key Indicators Frequent or severe palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering) can sometimes be harmless, but they might point to an underlying heart condition or an abnormal heart rhythm. One common abnormal rhythm, called atrial fibrillation, can increase your risk of a stroke. Pay attention to these feelings, especially if they come with dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, and seek medical advice to manage your heart health. High blood pressure is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease. If your blood pressure is too high, it can damage your arteries. You can often get free blood pressure checks at pharmacies to help assess your heart health 

heart health signs people often overlook that can causing serious problems

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