Swollen Feet and Ankles Could Signal Serious Heart Condition,Experts, Say, Sign

Swollen feet and ankles, often dismissed as a minor annoyance, could be a warning sign of a potentially life-threatening heart condition. Experts are urging people to be vigilant for this early symptom of heart failure, which affects nearly 1 million individuals in the United Kingdom. If left untreated, heart failure can lead to severe complications such as heart attacks.

Why this matters: Early detection and treatment of heart failure can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of serious complications, making awareness of these warning signs vital for public health. Moreover, recognizing the importance of cardiovascular health can encourage individuals to make lifestyle changes and prioritize prevention, thereby reducing the burden on the healthcare system. Early detection and treatment of heart failure can significantly improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of serious complications, making awareness of these warning signs vital for public health. Moreover, recognizing the importance of cardiovascular health can encourage individuals to make lifestyle changes and prioritize prevention, thereby reducing the burden on the healthcare system.

The British Heart Foundation reports that almost half of those suffering from heart failure exhibit symptoms in the early stages. One of the most noticeable signs is swollen ankles and legs, medically known asoedema. This swelling, caused by a buildup of excess fluid, tends to improve in the morning but worsens during the day's progression. "Heart failure means that the heart isn't functioning properly." One effect of this can be extra fluid in your body. This can cause rapid weight gain and can cause swelling in the ankles, feet or legs, or sometimes around the stomach. Fluid can also build up in the lungs, which can cause breathlessness,"the British Heart Foundation explains.

Persistent or worsening swelling over several days warrants a visit to the GP. Other key symptoms to watch for include breathlessness, which can occur after physical activity or even at rest. It may worsen when lying down and can cause people to wake up at night gasping for air. Fatigue is another common sign, with sufferers feeling exhausted most of the time and finding exercise increasingly difficult.

Less common symptoms of heart failure include lightheadedness, fainting, depression, anxiety, wheezing, and loss of appetite. The British Heart Foundation emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention rather than ignoring these warning signs. Early identification of heart failure allows patients to benefit from treatments like medication and lifestyle changes that significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Several factors can contribute to the development of heart failure, including previous heart attacks, cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle), and high blood pressure. By staying alert and proactive about cardiovascular health, individuals can take steps to prevent a small concern from turning into a serious, life-altering condition. Those experiencing persistent swelling or any other worrying symptoms should not hesitate to contact their healthcare provider, as vigilance could make all the difference in maintaining a healthy heart.

Key Takeaways

• Swollen feet and ankles can be an early sign of heart failure.
• Early detection and treatment can improve patient outcomes and reduce complications.
• Other symptoms of heart failure include breathlessness, fatigue, and rapid weight gain.
• Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over several days.
• Lifestyle changes and prioritizing cardiovascular health can prevent heart failure.