Is It Just Fatigue, or Is the Heart Asking for Help?
You’ve heard it before — “I’m just a little tired.” Maybe your mom says it after walking from the living room to the kitchen. Or your dad pauses halfway up the stairs and waves off your concern with a simple “I’m fine.”
But deep down, something feels off. They’re moving slower than usual. They take longer to catch their breath. You’ve even noticed their feet or ankles look a little puffy.
These may seem like small signs, but in many older adults, that’s exactly how heart issues begin — with a whisper before the shout.
The Heart Doesn’t Always Cry Out Loud
When we hear “heart failure,” it sounds frightening. But the reality is a little different. It doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working. It means it’s not pumping blood as efficiently as it used to — a bit like a garden hose with low pressure.
And here’s something many people don’t know:
➡️ More than 6 million adults in the U.S. are living with heart-related conditions.
➡️ Roughly 1 in 10 people over 70 deal with decreased heart function.
➡️ Many seniors go undiagnosed until the symptoms become too difficult to ignore.
That’s why early detection matters. The sooner we spot the issue, the sooner we can manage it — and help your loved one stay active and independent for longer.
So, What Should You Look Out For?
Some of the common early signs of heart stress or failure in seniors include:
- Ongoing fatigue, even after rest
- Shortness of breath, especially during small tasks
- Swelling in the feet, legs, or stomach
- A persistent cough or wheezing
- Sudden weight gain (often from fluid retention)
- Difficulty sleeping flat or waking up short of breath
If one or more of these signs sound familiar, it might be time to go beyond guesswork.
A Simple Test Could Change Everything
At Abic Diagnostic Laboratory in Owings Mills, we specialize in diagnostic testing that gives real answers to real concerns. We’re not here to alarm you — we’re here to support you with clarity and care.
One of the key tests we offer is the BNP test (B-type Natriuretic Peptide). This simple blood test can help detect heart failure by measuring a hormone released when the heart is under stress.
We also offer:
🧪 Cardiac panels – to assess overall heart health
🧪 Kidney function tests – because heart and kidney health are closely connected
🧪 Routine blood pressure monitoring and more
No hospital stress. No long waiting rooms. Just compassionate care, done right.
Why Families Choose Abic Diagnostic Lab
We know you’re busy — juggling work, family, and the emotional weight of caring for an aging parent. That’s why we make it easy:
✔️ Walk-ins are welcome — but we also offer appointment slots if you prefer to plan ahead
✔️ No long wait times — we value your time
✔️ Our team is friendly, professional, and treats every client like family
✔️ We use up-to-date technology for quick and accurate results
Our lab doesn’t just test — we care. We listen. We walk your family through the results. And we guide you on what the next best steps might be — whether that’s seeing a specialist, making lifestyle changes, or simply monitoring the situation.
Peace of Mind Starts Here
The truth is, you can’t always rely on “I’m fine” from someone who has spent decades being strong for everyone else. Sometimes, being fine isn’t the same as being well.
And sometimes, the kindest thing you can do for the parent who raised you is to say, “Let’s check, just in case.”
Because one small test could lead to big relief, for them and for you.
📍 Visit us in Owings Mills
📞 Call 443-963-9734 for questions or appointment info
🌐 Learn more and book online
❤️ At Abic Diagnostic Laboratory, we believe in early answers, clear guidance, and family-centered care. Let’s listen to what the heart may be trying to say, and act with love, not fear.
