Heart disease is a growing health concern in the UK. According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), more than 7.6 million people in the UK live with heart or circulatory problems. Experts say more than half of the population will face one of these diseases during their life. One top cardiologist says there’s a key symptom you must never ignore: chest pain.
Chest Pain Is the Most Common Warning Sign
Dr. Darius Farzad, a cardiologist at Jefferson Health, explained that chest pain is the most common reason patients come to the hospital. Speaking on the Living Well podcast, he said many people delay seeing a doctor because they think it’s just heartburn.
But chest pain, even if mild or brief, can signal serious heart trouble.
Dr. Farzad said, “If you feel chest pain—even if you’re not sure it’s serious—you should talk to a doctor right away.”
Many People Wait Too Long
Some people ignore chest pain for days, hoping it will go away. Dr. Farzad said this delay can be dangerous. He warns against searching for symptoms online instead of seeing a doctor. “Google is not always reliable,” he said. “You need expert advice for heart symptoms.”
He also explained that heart disease can appear in many ways. Sometimes the signs affect more than just the heart, including other organs. This makes early medical checks even more important.
Heart Disease Is a Growing Problem in the UK
The British Heart Foundation reports that heart and circulatory diseases affect more people than cancer and Alzheimer’s combined in the UK. And the problem is expected to get worse.
- By 2030, an extra 1 million people may be affected.
- By 2040, that number could grow to 2 million more.
These numbers show how important it is to watch for warning signs and seek early treatment.
Know the Risk Factors
Dr. Farzad says anyone with a history of heart disease—or risk factors—should talk to a cardiologist. These risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- A history of smoking
- Past heart problems like heart attacks, arrhythmias, or heart failure
If you feel any symptoms that could be linked to your heart, don’t wait. Visit your doctor or a heart specialist.
How to Protect Your Heart Health
There are simple steps you can take to lower your risk of heart disease. Dr. Farzad says the most important thing you can do is stop smoking. He called smoking the “biggest threat” to heart health.
Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
A healthy diet also plays a big role. Dr. Farzad recommends following the Mediterranean lifestyle, which includes:
- More fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Lean meats and fish
- Less fried and processed food
- Avoiding sugary snacks and white bread
However, he also says it’s important to be practical. “We need to help people find a balance that works in real life,” he explained.
Stay Active and Stay Informed
Exercise is another key step in staying heart-healthy. You don’t have to run marathons—regular walks, biking, or swimming can help. Try to move for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
Also, stay informed. Regular checkups can catch heart problems early. If you notice changes in your body—like chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue—don’t wait.
Why Early Action Matters
Catching heart disease early makes treatment easier and more successful. Many people live long, healthy lives with the right care. But ignoring symptoms can lead to serious or even deadly results.
Health experts remind everyone to listen to their body and trust the signs it gives.
