A consultant cardiologist has shared the one sentence that 'worries her the most' during appointments, noting how often people dismiss new symptoms. Dr Nabila Laskar, a consultant cardiologist and specialist in cardiac imaging at St Bartholomew's Hospital, often posts on Instagram as @Thecardiologydoctors.
In a recent video, she highlighted a red flag she sometimes hears in her clinic. The expert explained that it can be worrying when new symptoms are brushed off as only being age-related. Her post was titled: "The sentence that worries me most..."
What the cardiologist said
In the caption, Dr Laskar wrote: "Many people attribute breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance or chest discomfort to ageing, but sometimes this is a sign of heart disease. I always ask my patients to compare their activity levels to six months ago.
"If things have changed drastically, it is rarely due to ageing and seeking advice from a healthcare professional should be prioritised…not postponed. Do you know someone who blames most symptoms on ageing?"
NHS on heart disease
The NHS says coronary heart disease remains a major cause of death in the UK. Symptoms can vary from person to person and, in some cases, people may not notice anything before being diagnosed. Common signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, feeling faint, nausea, and pain that can spread to the neck, shoulders, jaw or arms.
The health service explains that while coronary heart disease cannot be cured, treatment can help control symptoms and lower the risk of serious complications such as heart attacks. Treatment options may include regular exercise, stopping smoking, medicines, angioplasty, and surgery. The NHS adds that people can cut their risk by staying active, keeping cholesterol and blood sugar under control, and eating a balanced diet.
Other expert advice
Cleveland Clinic highlights that a change in fitness levels could indicate a change in heart health. Cardiologist Ashish Sarraju said in a blog post: "Think of your walks as a stress test you can do every day. If you notice changes, it may help tip us off about something going on with your health." He explained: "If your cardiorespiratory fitness is high and your activity levels are high, your heart health tends to be better. Walking speed can be a reflection of that kind of global effect."
Always speak to a medical professional if you have any concerns about your health. The NHS website says: "Most chest pain is not a sign of anything serious but get medical advice just in case. Get immediate medical help if you think you're having a heart attack."
