Some of the common non-communicable illnesses in Singapore include cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and other coronary heart diseases.

However, even well-documented illnesses can still have a lot of surprises especially if the symptoms are not so obvious to the person. The heart, which supplies blood and oxygen to various parts of the body, often show signs that it is unhealthy in other parts of the body.

Sleep Problems. If you have had sleeping problems for years, then you are at high risk of developing a hear disease. Sleep apnea in particular has been linked to heart attack and stroke because you temporarily stop breathing for a few moments. The lack of oxygen can potentially damage organs including your heart.

Coughing. Persistent coughing may be a sign that there is fluid retention in your lungs, which can be a sign of heart failure. Do not ignore coughing that feel as if you’re struggling for air because it could be an obstructive pulmonary disease.

Sexual Health. Maybe your poor intimate relationship with your partner is not a sign of old age or dysfunction but it could be an early symptom of a heart diseases. After all, reduced blood flow to parts of the body mean that your cardiovascular system is working a lot harder than it should. There are also studies that show a correlation of erectile dysfunction to heart disease among men.

Fatigue. Sometimes there are early warning signs of a heart attack days before the event. If you notice that you feel unusually and severely tired and lethargic even when you haven’t done any exercise, it is probably time to visit your doctor.

Sore or Bleeding Gums. If the cause of your dental issues is not linked to dental health, the doctor might consider your history of cardiovascular diseases. There is a 50% chance that you are experiencing the early signs of heart disease especially if the inflammation in your gums has not been treated for a long time.

Loss of Appetite and Nausea. If you have ruled out food poisoning or other illnesses, it could be a sign of a heart attack. Some people have fluid buildup in their abdominal cavity which causes it to swell, making the person feel full. Unfortunately, by the time you realize this the damage has been done.

Swollen Legs or Feet. Puffy legs or feet can be a sign that you have poor fluid retention or edema, which is one of the symptoms of a heart disease. Fluids are retained in the extremities (hands and feet) because your blood can’t keep up with the task of carrying waste products from your tissues.

Cold Sweats. If for no apparent reason or if you have not had any strenuous physical activity and you suddenly break into a cold sweat, it is time to call for emergency. Drenching sweat is a sign of a possible heart attack.