Symptom 10: Decreased Exercise Tolerance: A Hidden Chain on Your Legs
When you find that everyday activities or mild exercises are suddenly more challenging, it’s not just an indication of aging or out-of-shape physique. Decreased exercise tolerance is a subtle symptom of heart failure in men that can easily be dismissed or misattributed.
The heart is the center of the body’s transportation system, pumping oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to every muscle and organ. When this mechanism works smoothly, you’re able to perform physical tasks with relative ease. However, in the case of heart failure, the heart struggles to maintain this efficient distribution. This struggle reflects in your physical capabilities.
Your morning jog becomes an uphill battle. Walking up the stairs feels like climbing a mountain. You may even notice a peculiar fatigue setting in after minimal exertion. These are potential signs that your heart is having a hard time meeting the increased demands during physical activities.
But remember, decreased exercise tolerance is a subtle sign. It’s not like a blaring horn but more of a whisper in the wind. And it’s this subtlety that makes it tricky. You may pass it off as just an off-day or attribute it to non-heart related issues like lung diseases or anemia. (10)
