If you’re experiencing any symptoms triggered by exertion and alleviated by rest, it could be related to a problem with your heart. In observance of Heart Health Month, today, Dr. Timothy Barry of Family Foot & Ankle Care of Jasper in Dubois County shares information regarding some symptoms that can indicate a heart problem.

Unexplained pains: The obstruction of the blood supply to the heart muscle that accompanies coronary artery disease can make the heart resist when asked to work harder. But that pain is not always located in the chest – it can occur in the arms, back, jaw, abdomen, or shoulders. When pain in these locations is triggered with exercise and is relieved with rest, the pain could very well be an indication of heart disease.

Fatigue: Medicines and many illnesses can cause exhaustion. However, if the tiredness comes on quickly, it can be a sign of heart failure or coronary artery disease.

Swollen ankles or feet: Swelling in theankle, foot, or leg could be a sign of heart failure. But it also could be triggered by indulging in too much salty food, insufficient blood flow in your legs, liver failure, a side effect of some drugs, or kidney disease.

Irregular heartbeat: A heart palpitation – a heartbeat that feels rapid or irregular – can be harmless when caused by caffeine intake, dehydration, or anxiety.However, in some cases,they can be a sign of a heart problem. Be sure to note how your palpitations feel, how often they’re happening, and what you’re doing when they occur.

Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath that happens when you engage in short bursts of activity could indicate an issue with your heart. For instance, if you climb up 5 flights of stairs, you’ll probably be short of breath, but if you walk up just 10 stairs and you’re short of breath, you may have a heart problem.

It’s so important to listen to what all areas of your body are trying to tell you. If something seems off with your feet, contact the office of Dr. Timothy Barry of Family Foot & Ankle Care of Jasper in Dubois County at (812) 481-7200 to schedule a consultation to get to the bottom of the problem and begin treatment.