Heart failure can develop gradually or strike suddenly. Many ignore the early signs, mistaking them for minor issues. One man who survived cardiogenic shock—a life-threatening form of heart failure—shares his experience. Recognizing these signs early could mean the difference between life and death. The more you know, the better prepared you are to act. Here are five key warning signs to watch for, explained in detail.
A Survivor’s Story: Mark Kader’s Cardiac Episode
Mark Kader, 41, had a heart scare that required a trip to the hospital in August. He felt dizzy and nauseous before collapsing on the bathroom floor. As a cardiac nurse and heart pump expert, Kader never expected to be the one experiencing a cardiac emergency. He believed his risk was low due to his active lifestyle and lack of family history of heart disease.
His wife found him unconscious and called an ambulance. On the way to the hospital, he noticed his heart rhythm was off on the EKG. Kader, who teaches doctors about the very same heart pump that saved his life, was shocked that he had ignored his own symptoms. “It’s kind of embarrassing because I’ve been a cardiac nurse for 15 years and I blew off the signs,” Kader admitted. “You think it can happen to anybody else, but it won’t happen to you.”
1. Dizziness and Lightheadedness
Kader first noticed dizziness while doing housework. He assumed he was dehydrated and didn’t think much of it. However, his dizziness was caused by an irregular ventricular rhythm, also known as arrhythmia. His heart wasn’t pumping blood effectively, leading to reduced circulation to his brain. This condition, called cardiogenic shock, can cause sudden fainting if untreated.
Dizziness is often overlooked, but when combined with other symptoms, it can indicate a serious problem. If you feel lightheaded without an obvious cause, especially while standing or moving, it’s essential to get checked.
Read More: 12 Subtle Warning Signs of Heart Disease
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea was another sign Kader ignored. He felt queasy but assumed it was unrelated to his heart. Many people don’t associate nausea with cardiac issues, but it is a common symptom, especially in younger patients and women. In some cases, nausea occurs due to poor blood circulation to the digestive system or as a stress response from the heart struggling to function.
Had Kader recognized this as a warning sign, he might have sought help sooner. If you experience sudden, unexplained nausea, particularly alongside dizziness or sweating, consider seeing a doctor immediately.
3. Fainting or Passing Out
Kader eventually collapsed on the bathroom floor. He lost consciousness because his heart wasn’t pumping enough oxygen-rich blood to his brain. Fainting, or syncope, is a significant warning sign of heart failure, arrhythmia, or even a heart attack.
While Kader didn’t initially recognize his heart rhythm was off, his fainting episode confirmed something was seriously wrong. If you experience an unexplained blackout, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
4. Excessive Sweating
When Kader regained consciousness, he was drenched in sweat. He didn’t realize at the time that excessive sweating is a common symptom of heart problems. When the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, the body reacts by sweating to regulate temperature. This can happen even when you’re at rest.
Many people ignore sweating as a sign of heart failure, especially if they don’t experience chest pain. However, if you suddenly break out in a cold sweat without exertion, it could be your heart signaling distress.
5. Chest Pain or Discomfort
Although Kader didn’t experience severe chest pain, he acknowledges that it is one of the most common signs of heart failure and heart attacks. Chest pain can feel like pressure, tightness, or even heartburn. It may also radiate to the left arm, neck, or jaw.
Some people, especially women, experience milder chest discomfort rather than crushing pain. Kader emphasizes the importance of recognizing any chest-related discomfort and seeking medical attention immediately. “Anytime you have chest pain, discomfort, nausea, lightheadedness, dizziness—it’s worth getting checked out sooner. Because the sooner you get identified, the better that you’re going to be.”
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore the Signs
Kader’s story serves as a powerful reminder that heart failure doesn’t always arrive with dramatic symptoms. It often begins with subtle warning signs that are easy to dismiss. Shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, sweating, and fainting are all crucial red flags. Ignoring them could allow heart failure to progress undetected, leading to life-threatening consequences.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can prevent serious complications and improve your chances of recovery. Don’t assume you’re not at risk—heart conditions can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level or family history. The key to survival is recognizing the signs and taking action before it’s too late.
Read More: 4 Early Hidden Warning Signs of a Heart Attack You Can’t Afford to Ignore!