From Walking Pace to Fatigue to Stamina: CMC Vellore Doctor Says It Could Be a Warning Sign of Heart Attack
Subtle changes in your body, like a slower walking pace, persistent fatigue, or declining stamina, might seem like normal aging—but they could be early warning signs of a heart attack. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist trained at Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore and practicing at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad, emphasizes that these symptoms can appear up to 12 years before a cardiovascular event. Recognizing them early and taking action could save your life. Here’s what you need to know about these warning signs and how to protect your heart health.
Declining Stamina: A Silent Red Flag
One of the earliest indicators of potential heart issues is a gradual decline in stamina. If you notice you’re struggling to maintain your usual level of physical activity—whether it’s climbing stairs, brisk walking, or completing daily tasks—this could signal trouble. Dr. Kumar notes that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) often begins to drop about 12 years before a cardiovascular disease diagnosis, with a sharper decline in the two years prior. This isn’t just aging; it’s your heart signaling it’s under stress. For example, if brisk walking 5 km in an hour feels harder than it used to, especially between ages 18–60, it’s worth paying attention to.
Breathlessness During Routine Activities
Feeling out of breath during activities you once handled easily, like walking or light chores, is another warning sign. This breathlessness, or dyspnea, can occur because your heart isn’t pumping efficiently, reducing oxygen delivery to your muscles. Dr. Kumar highlights that this symptom is often mistaken for normal fatigue but can indicate early cardiovascular issues. If you’re panting after a short walk or climbing a few steps, it’s time to consult a doctor.
Unusual Fatigue: More Than Just Tiredness
Fatigue that feels excessive or disproportionate to your activity level is a critical clue. If you’re needing more rest than before for the same effort or feeling unusually tired after routine tasks, it could point to reduced heart function. This fatigue stems from your heart struggling to meet your body’s demands, a sign that can appear years before a heart attack. Dr. Kumar stresses that this isn’t just about feeling sleepy—it’s a deeper exhaustion that doesn’t resolve with rest alone.
Why These Symptoms Matter
Dr. Kumar, citing research like the CARDIA study published in JAMA Cardiology, explains that cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure rarely strike without warning. The body drops hints—sometimes a decade in advance—through these subtle changes. A sharp decline in physical activity, especially in the two years before a diagnosis, is particularly telling. These symptoms are often dismissed as aging, but they reflect your heart’s struggle to keep up, especially under stress or exertion.
Preventive Steps to Protect Your Heart
The good news? You can act on these warning signs to reduce your risk. Dr. Kumar and other experts recommend the following to maintain heart health:
- Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly, like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Even small increases, like adding 1,000 steps daily, can lower heart attack risk by 9%, heart failure by 22%, and stroke by 24%.
- Healthy Diet: Focus on balanced meals with lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables. Cut down on fried foods, sugar, and excessive caffeine.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-relief techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce strain on your heart.
- Regular Check-Ups: Annual screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes can catch issues early. Don’t skip these, even if you feel fine.
- Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7+ hours of quality sleep, as poor sleep can exacerbate heart risks.
- Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Both significantly increase cardiovascular risk.
For those who’ve already had a heart event, Dr. Kumar advises gradually resuming physical activity under medical guidance, rather than slipping into a sedentary lifestyle. Cardiac rehab programs can help rebuild stamina safely.
A Wake-Up Call
The tragic death of Dr. Gradlin Roy, a 39-year-old cardiac surgeon who succumbed to a heart attack in 2025, underscores the urgency of heeding these signs. Dr. Kumar, reflecting on this loss, emphasized that even doctors, who understand heart health better than most, can fall victim due to long hours, stress, and neglected self-care. His message is clear: listen to your body. A slower walking pace, breathlessness, or persistent fatigue aren’t just inconveniences—they’re your heart asking for help.
Conclusion
Don’t ignore subtle changes like declining stamina, breathlessness, or unusual fatigue. These could be your body’s way of warning you about a potential heart attack years in advance. By staying active, eating well, managing stress, and getting regular check-ups, you can protect your heart and reduce your risk. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and ECG tests. As Dr. Kumar advises, building healthy habits early can make all the difference—because your heart deserves care long before a crisis strikes.
Sources: The Economic Times, August 10, 2025; The Logical Indian, August 30, 2025; Dr. Sudhir Kumar’s X posts, August 2025.
