Samuel Adesanya, 55, did not suspect anything near heart failure. He had been experiencing persistent chest heaviness, shortness of breath with minimal effort.
These were accompanied with swelling in his legs, and difficulty sleeping unless propped up.
Yet he continued running his electrical repair business in Alagbole, blaming exhaustion. His wife later recalled, “I thought it was stress and old age.
He kept saying he would rest once business improved.” Samuel never got that rest. One evening he collapsed at his shop and was rushed to hospital, where doctors diagnosed advanced heart failure. He died two days later.
Samuel’s story reflects a troubling pattern.
Across Nigeria, many people ignore the early warning signs of heart failure until the condition becomes critical, turning a manageable illness into a life-threatening emergency. The tragedy is that many of these deaths could have been prevented.
Common symptoms of heart failure include breathlessness during activity or rest, persistent fatigue, swelling in the feet or legs, coughing or wheezing, and an irregular heartbeat. Severe chest pain, fainting, or sudden breathlessness require urgent medical attention.
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In Nigeria, however, these warning signs are often dismissed. Fatigue is seen as the price of survival. Breathlessness is blamed on heat, dust, or stress. Swollen feet are attributed to long hours of standing. Chest discomfort is often treated with painkillers or herbal mixtures rather than medical evaluations.
Experts advise quick visit to the doctor once the signs begin to manifest.
Cami Ezenwa is a Writer, Editor, Publicist, Biographer and Journalism Trainer
He has worked with the Daily Times, Daily Independent, Financial Standard and Business Television to mention some.
His ongoing Corporate Communications Master Class training series equips learners with credible hands-on skills for effective Media Relations, Public Communications & Corporate Affairs amongst others.
He can be contacted via 09165809519 or 08180335778.