'I'm a cardiologist and these are warning signs you should never ignore'

Heart and circulatory diseases claim approximately 17.9 million lives worldwide each year, making them the globe's biggest killer.

Shockingly, experts estimate over half of Britons will develop a heart or circulatory condition during their lifetime.

This makes recognising the warning signs absolutely crucial - and knowing precisely when to consult a specialist.

According to Dr Allison R. Zielinski, a cardiologist at Northwestern Medicine, chest pain should prompt an immediate doctor's visit.

Chest discomfort represents one of the "hallmark signs of a heart problem", with pressure that intensifies during physical activity potentially signalling that the heart isn't receiving adequate blood supply, reports Surrey Live.

Dr Zielinski also recommended seeking specialist care if you suffer from breathlessness, heart palpitations or dizzy spells, as medical professionals can establish whether a cardiac condition is responsible.

Certain warning signs demand emergency medical attention, including pain that radiates to your arm, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.

British Heart Foundation specialists warn this could signal a heart attack, meaning 999 should be dialled without delay.

Sudden nausea, perspiration or feeling faint might seem like food poisoning or anxiety - but could actually indicate a cardiac event.

The BHF states: "If you experience a new and sudden feeling of sickness, sweatiness or light-headedness it is important you call 999 straight away."

You should also monitor any puffiness in your feet, ankles, or lower legs, as this can signal heart failure.

This happens when your heart cannot circulate blood effectively throughout the body, resulting in fluid build-up.

Another instance when you must dial 999 immediately is if you notice any indicators of a stroke.

The Stroke Association advises remembering the FAST acronym (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) as "every minute is vital" when seeking urgent medical assistance.

Facial weakness forms the initial element of the acronym and requires checking whether the individual can smile or if their mouth or eyes have drooped.

Next is arm weakness - can they lift both arms and maintain them raised?

Their speech may also be impacted and might sound garbled.

Should someone you know display any single one of these warning signs, you must contact 999 without delay.

The Stroke Association states: "Acting FAST will give the person having a stroke the best chance of survival and recovery. Even if it doesn't seem like much, any one of these signs of stroke is an emergency, so always call 999 immediately."

Intense headaches or vision difficulties - including blurred eyesight or losing sight in one or both eyes - may also indicate a stroke.