Red flag symptom in legs could be sign of heart failure

Red flag symptom in legs could be sign of heart failure The NHS has outlined a warning sign that can show up in the legs, feet, or ankles NHS guidance says highlights that an uncomfortable symptom in the legs that could signal a potentially life-threatening medical condition. The health service highlights that swelling in the legs can be a red flag for heart failure. This condition, known as oedema, can also affect the feet and ankles, making it difficult to walk. It may ease in the morning but "get worse later in the day" according to the NHS. Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood around the body efficiently, often because it has become too weak or stiff. The NHS notes: "Heart failure is a long-term condition that tends to get gradually worse over time. It cannot usually be cured, but the symptoms can often be controlled for many years." Experts at Medical News Today add that heart failure causes blood pressure to rise within the vessels because the heart cannot pump effectively. "This elevation in pressure forces fluid out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling, or oedema," they explain. Oedema can present as swollen or puffy ankles, feet, or legs, skin that looks shiny or stretched, changes in skin colour, discomfort, stiffness, and indentations when pressure is applied to the skin. It can also arise from other causes such as standing or sitting in the same position for too long; eating too much salty food; being overweight; pregnancy; taking certain medicines; thyroid problems; and varicose veins. Oedema can also be caused by injury, a blood clot, kidney or liver problems, an infection, or an insect sting or bite. Heart failure symptoms Other warning signs of heart failure to be aware of include breathlessness, which can occur during activity or while resting, and may deteriorate when lying down. You might also find yourself waking during the night gasping for breath. Fatigue is another indicator, leaving you feeling worn out for much of the time and making physical exertion particularly draining. Dizziness and fainting episodes are further warning signs to watch for. Less frequently occurring symptoms of heart failure can include a persistent cough that worsens at night, wheezing, a swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, fluctuations in weight, confusion, a racing heart rate, and a pounding, fluttering or irregular heartbeat (palpitations). Some heart failure sufferers may also experience bouts of depression and anxiety. The NHS advises: "See your GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure." It adds: "Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as soon as possible if you have sudden or very severe symptoms."