Heart disease is a major cause of death in the UK and worldwide. According to the British Heart Foundation more than 7.6 million people in the UK are living with heart or circulatory diseases.

Globally, it’s estimated one in 12 people are affected. Heart disease includes a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels.

It’s often caused by fatty deposits in the arteries, which can heighten the risk of blood clots.

It can also lead to damage to vital organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes. However, symptoms of heart disease can differ from person to person, and some may not recognise the warning signs, Surrey Live reports.

A recent survey by LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor involving 500 UK adults found that only 46 per cent knew that leg swelling could be a symptom of heart disease. In recognition of February being National Heart Month, Dr Bhavini Shah, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, expanded on these symptoms and offered practical advice on how to reduce your risk.

Symptoms of heart disease can include:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Extreme fatigue
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of the legs

Chest pain is a common symptom of heart disease. If you experience chest pain that feels like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness, it could suggest a heart attack, and it’s essential to call 999 immediately.

According to a recent survey, 80 per cent of respondents correctly identified chest pain as a symptom of heart disease, making it the most recognised sign. Furthermore, 77 per cent of individuals accurately pinpointed shortness of breath as a symptom.

Dr Shah explains that if the heart isn’t pumping enough blood throughout the body, fluid may build up in the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing and leading to shortness of breath. Irregular heart rhythms can also be an indication of heart disease, a symptom 70 per cent of people were aware of.

While this might not be directly linked to a serious condition, it’s crucial to get this checked to understand any underlying issues. Some 66 per cent of surveyed respondents acknowledged that extreme fatigue can also be a symptom, making day-to-day activities or mild exercise exhausting.

Dr Shah also says that leg swelling, medically known as oedema, is a less well-known symptom of heart disease and occurs when fluid builds up in the tissue. This can worsen throughout the day. Less than half (46 per cent) were aware of this.

Eat healthily

Reducing fat intake is an effective way to not only lower your risk of coronary heart disease but also help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The NHS suggests a diet rich in fibre and low in fat, incorporating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, along with whole grains such as oats, rye and brown rice.

It’s also recommended to limit your salt intake to under six grams per day and steer clear of saturated fats that can cause cholesterol levels to skyrocket.

Keep moving

Dr Shah is a strong supporter of regular physical activity as a means of warding off heart disease. The British Heart Foundation suggests that keeping active can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 35 per cent.

Regular exercise also helps regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol. It’s advised to aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.

Whether it’s a brisk walk, a bike ride, a swim or a fitness class, finding an activity you enjoy could help keep you consistent and encourage a healthier lifestyle.

Stop smoking

Action on Smoking and Health, a charity organisation, warns that smoking cigarettes damages the lining of arteries, including those leading to the heart. A chemical called acrolein interferes with the body’s ability to process cholesterol, leading to higher levels in the bloodstream.

Cut back on booze

Another way to decrease your risk of heart disease is to drink alcohol in moderation. NHS guidelines suggest that both men and women should restrict their consumption to no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread over at least three days rather than downed all at once.

Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to hypertension. Regularly drinking more than the advised 14 units a week over a ten-year period can increase your chances of developing heart disease or experiencing a stroke.

Quality sleep is essential

Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial. Lack of sleep could heighten your risk of heart disease.

A healthy adult needs between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Teenagers, children, and infants require more, anywhere from eight to 16 hours. Making small but significant changes to your daily routine can greatly enhance your heart health.

If you notice any heart attack symptoms, call 999 immediately. Seek medical advice from a GP if you have any heart disease symptoms.