When to Take Action for a Stronger Heart

Subtle symptoms like jaw pain, indigestion, and shortness of breath can be signals of serious heart problems. Dr. Rita Butler, an interventional cardiologist, at Virtua Cardiology, explains the key red flags that should never be ignored when it comes to your heart health.

Updated July 01, 2025

By Rita Butler, MD, Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, Vascular Medicine, and Interventional Cardiology, Virtua Interventional Cardiology

Subtle symptoms like jaw pain, indigestion, and shortness of breath can signal serious heart problems. Dr. Rita Butler, an interventional cardiologist, at Virtua Cardiology, explains the key red flags that should never be ignored when it comes to your heart health.

Shortness of Breath

What it means:

Shortness of breath is a common early indicator of heart disease, particularly that of heart failure. If daily activities leave you unusually winded, your heart may not be pumping blood efficiently.

When to be concerned:

Sudden or severe shortness of breath, especially with chest pain or fatigue, should prompt immediate medical attention, as it could signal a heart attack or heart failure.

Jaw Pain

What it means:

Jaw pain, particularly on the left side, may be an early sign of a heart attack, especially in women. Though often mistaken for a dental issue, it can be related to the heart, especially when combined with other symptoms.

When to be concerned:

If jaw pain comes with nausea, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath, it’s critical to seek emergency care right away.

Chest Pain

What it means:

Chest pain is a classic sign of heart issues, including angina or a heart attack. It might feel like pressure, tightness, or a squeezing sensation.

When to be concerned:

If the pain is persistent or severe, lasts more than a few minutes, or occurs with other symptoms like dizziness or sweating, get to an emergency room immediately.

Nausea, Indigestion, and Heartburn

What it means:

Heartburn, indigestion, or nausea might seem unrelated to your heart, but they can be early symptoms of a heart attack. Women in particular may experience these signs during a heart event.

When to be concerned:

If nausea or indigestion is accompanied by chest pain or discomfort in other areas like the jaw or arms, call 911 right away.

Arm Pain

What it means:

Pain that radiates down the left arm is a well-known heart attack symptom, often due to shared nerve pathways between the heart and other parts of the body.