BY Diane NIKUZE NKUSI
The human heart, often called the body’s engine, powers every organ and system we depend on. When the heart is healthy, the whole body thrives. But when trouble starts, the signs are often silent until it’s too late.
Dr. Angela Kamanzi, a cardiologist, emphasizes how crucial it is to recognize early warning signs of heart disease.
“Many people wait until they feel intense chest pain before seeking help,” she says. “But subtle signs like fatigue, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat can signal major problems developing.”
Signs to watch for:
Shortness of breath even during light activity; fatigue that is unexplained; chest discomfort or tightness; swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet; rapid or irregular heartbeat and light-headedness or fainting spells
Jean-Pierre Uwizeye, a 52-year-old who survived a heart attack last year, shares his story:
“I used to feel tired very quickly when walking. I thought it was just aging,” he recalls. “One evening, the pain in my chest became unbearable. If I had listened to my body earlier, I might have avoided the emergency surgery.”
Experts advise regular checkups, especially for people over 40 or those with a family history of heart disease.
Dr. Kamanzi notes, “Prevention is always better than cure. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking can dramatically reduce heart disease risks.”
Another survivor, Esperance Uwimana, encourages people not to ignore small symptoms.
“I used to dismiss the slight dizziness I felt. After my diagnosis, I realized that my body had been warning me for months,” she says.
Today’s advanced treatments can save lives, but timing is critical. Awareness, early diagnosis, and action are key to keeping the body’s engine running smoothly for a lifetime.
