Heart-lung symptoms and blood pressure

Professionally updated: February 24, 2024

Heart-lung symptoms refer to a range of signs and symptoms that may indicate problems with your heart or lungs. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can be caused by a number of different conditions. If you experience any of the symptoms described below, it is important to book an appointment with a doctor for a thorough assessment.

Jakob Fraes

Specialist in General Medicine, Ph.D.

Read more about Heart-lung symptoms and blood pressure. Everything you should know.

Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath, also called dyspnea, is a feeling of having difficulty breathing. This can happen both during physical activity or at rest. The causes can be many, from heart failure to asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Chest pain

Chest pain or discomfort may be related to the heart, but also to other parts of the body, such as the stomach or muscles. It is important to distinguish between the different types of pain in order to identify the possible cause.

Typical symptoms of cardiopulmonary disease

Shortness of breath (Dyspnea): A feeling of difficulty breathing, which can occur during physical activity, at rest, or both.
Chest pain: Pain or discomfort in the chest area can be a sign of heart problems such as angina or a heart attack, but can also be caused by other factors such as muscle tension or digestive problems.
Cough: A persistent cough, especially one that produces white or pink frothy mucus, may be a sign of heart failure. Coughing can also be related to the lungs, such as with bronchitis or pneumonia.
Wheezing: A wheezing sound when breathing can indicate a narrowing or blockage in the lungs.
Swollen legs and feet (Edema): Accumulation of fluid in the legs and feet may be a sign of heart failure.
Fatigue: Overwhelming fatigue or weakness can be a sign of heart problems or lung diseases.
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia): An irregular heartbeat can feel like a fluttering in the chest or as if the heart is skipping beats.
Pale or bluish skin: This may be a sign of low blood oxygen levels, which can be caused by heart or lung problems.
Dizziness or fainting: This may be related to heart problems, low blood pressure, or other causes.
Lips or nails turning blue: This is a sign of low blood oxygen levels and may indicate a problem with the lungs or heart.

Cough and wheezing

A persistent cough or wheezing may be a sign of lung disease. It can also be a symptom of heart failure, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or fatigue.

Swollen legs and feet

Fluid retention, also known as edema, can cause swelling, especially in the legs and feet. This can be a sign of heart failure or other heart conditions.

Fatigue and weakness

The feeling of constant fatigue, even after a good night's sleep, can be a symptom of heart problems. It is important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if the fatigue persists.

Changes in blood pressure

Blood pressure is the force your blood exerts against the walls of your arteries. High or low blood pressure can be a sign of various heart-lung conditions. Regular monitoring of your blood pressure is important for monitoring your heart and lung health.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I seek medical attention for heart and lung symptoms?

If you experience severe or persistent symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or unusual fatigue, you should seek medical attention immediately. It is always better to be on the safe side.

Can stress cause cardio-pulmonary symptoms?

Yes, stress can contribute to heart problems and high blood pressure. It is important to manage stress in healthy ways, such as through meditation, exercise, and a healthy diet.

What is normal blood pressure?

Normal blood pressure for most adults is around 120/80 mm Hg. Readings above 140/90 mm Hg are generally considered high blood pressure.

Is a cough always related to lung disease?

Although coughing is often associated with lung diseases, it can also be a symptom of heart failure, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath or fatigue.