Heart Disease Warning Signs: From BP to climbing stairs, these 4 ways will tell you how your heart and arteries are doing.:If you want to know about your heart health while staying at home, whether it is good or not, then let us tell you 4 ways through which you will know it yourself.

News Topical, Digital Desk : If you often worry about blockages forming in your arteries, the good news is that you can identify early signs with some simple home checks. Although plaque buildup in arteries can't be seen directly from home, the body does give off some signals that can indicate danger.

Regular blood pressure check-ups

The first and easiest way is to regularly check your blood pressure. An automatic, digital blood pressure monitor with an upper arm is considered the most reliable. Before measuring your blood pressure, sit quietly for at least five minutes, keeping your feet flat on the floor and your back supported. Then, take two readings, morning and night. Do this for a week, and then average all the readings. If your blood pressure is repeatedly higher than normal, it could be a sign of increased pressure on your arteries. Generally, a blood pressure around 120/80 mmHg is considered normal.

Ankle Brachial Index

Another important test is the ankle brachial index. According to the health information website Mayoclinic, this test compares blood pressure in the legs and arms and is particularly helpful in identifying the risk of peripheral artery disease. It requires either two cuffs or can be measured alternately using a single machine. If the ankle to arm pressure ratio is less than 0.90, it may indicate narrowing of the leg arteries and an increased risk of heart disease. This method is considered reliable and helps in early screening.

Lipid Profile Test

The third important step is a lipid profile test. Many labs now offer home sample collection. This test measures total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. High LDL cholesterol, in particular, increases the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. A 12-hour fast is usually required before the test, unless your doctor advises otherwise. The report is available online, making it easy to track.

Trouble climbing stairs

Climb four flights of stairs at a steady pace. If you experience chest pressure, shortness of breath, pain in your jaw or arm, or dizziness, stop immediately. Also note the duration of these symptoms and what triggers them. These symptoms, which appear during exertion, may indicate a risk of coronary artery disease.