Ischaemic heart disease remains the world’s deadliest killer, yet its early warnings are often quiet, scattered, and easily brushed aside. Persistent fatigue, for example, may be more than burnout; narrowed arteries can starve the heart of blood long before a crisis. Shortness of breath, sudden weakness, dizzy spells, or unexplained cold sweats are not inconveniences to “push through” but possible signs your circulation is faltering and your heart is struggling to keep up.

Flu-like symptoms, growing chest pressure, or swelling in the feet and ankles can appear days or even weeks before a heart attack. These prodromal symptoms don’t guarantee one is coming, but they are serious enough to demand attention. Listening to them — and seeking medical help early — can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Share the knowledge, question the “normal,” and let caution buy you, or someone you love, more time.