The heart has a very important function which is to pump blood through the body. And there are some lifestyle choices that can either make our heart healthier or make it weaker!

Many people don’t realize that their heart is in danger until it’s too late. But you can look out for some of these signs that tell you that your heart may be having some problems so you can get checked out as quickly as possible.

If you easily experience shortness of breath after light activities, such as finding it hard to catch your breath after a short flight of stairs, it could be a sign of danger. If you have breathing problems when you lie down and can only sleep in semi-sitting positions to breathe properly, then this should be looked into as well.

Chest Ache! When you feel something in your chest that seems like a pulled muscle, it could be a sign of an underlying cardiovascular condition. It does not have to be a severe pain; it can also be mild and radiate to the shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw. Also, keep an eye out for chest pain that appears out of nowhere after an exercise or when you’re anxious.

Lightheadedness on a regular basis! Dizziness or lightheadedness could be a sign of a blockage or valve problem, especially if it’s accompanied by the sensation that your heart is fluttering.

Insufficient blow flow to your organs can lead to the feeling of nausea or fatigue. Be extra watchful if these symptoms appear after you engage in physical activity. Coughing or wheezing! According to MedlinePlus, constant coughing or wheezing that doesn’t let up can indicate that fluid is building up in your lungs.

Swelling! Also known as edema, swelling in your lower legs can be a sign of a heart problem. When your heart isn’t working as well as it should, the blood flow slows down and causes fluid to build up in your tissues.

You’re at a higher risk of a heart attack if you experience the narrowing of the blood vessels. This happens when cholesterol and other fatty material build up in the walls of your arteries. The condition can cause numbness in your legs or feet when you’re at rest.

How to protect your heart! Dealing with heart problems can be scary, but you can prevent having to go through it. According to the mayo clinic, some of the ways to reduce your chances of experiencing heart problems include: Exercise frequently; Choose meals that are low in saturated fats and salt; Maintain a healthy weight; Prevent and manage stress.