The Generics Pharmacy issues Health Check 101

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. In the Philippines alone, over 100,000 die of heart failure each year, according to the Department of Health.

Keeping yourself informed about the symptoms of heart disease is your first step towards prevention.

The Generics Pharmacy ( TGP), the country’s largest drugstore chain, shares five signs of the disease that you should not ignore.

1. Dizziness, especially following a quick movement, is an extremely common symptom for people with possible heart disease. It may be due to an abnormal heart function or a rapid but temporary drop in blood pressure.

2. Excessive snoring is a common sign of sleep apnea, or periods of time during sleep when you stop breathing. Excessive snoring can be a sign of an irregular and rapid heart rate that causes poor blood flow. This may trigger a drop in oxygen level in the blood, which can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.

3. Chest pain closely mimics the symptoms of a heart attack. This is usually felt in the center or left side of the chest and may spread to the arm, neck, shoulder, jaw or back.

4. An occasional change in pulse rate is considered normal, but irregular pulse rate accompanied by weakness, dizziness or difficulty in breathing can be an early sign of heart attack. This means your heart is out of its normal rhythm.

5. Inflammation or swelling of feet, ankles, legs and abdomen can be a serious sign of heart failure.

Many other signs are seemingly common and can be confused with symptoms of other diseases. If you are experiencing any of these conditions or any other abnormality, visit your doctor to properly assess your health. You may also visit TGP branches for free vital signs checkup and counseling.