Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders that affect the blood vessels. The term encompasses heart attacks and strokes.
Both conditions are acute events that result primarily from a blockage that prevents blood from flowing to the heart or brain. Before this happens, swollen ankles can be a clear warning of your risk.
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Heart attacks are caused by the lack of blood reaching the heart.
Without enough blood, the heart could be seriously damaged, and could even be life-threatening.
A heart attack could also be a symptom of coronary heart disease, which is where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, limiting the amount of blood reaching the heart.
You may be at risk of a fatal heart attack if your feet or lower legs appear swollen.
Swelling (edema) in the lower legs may be a sign of a heart problem.
When your heart doesn’t work as well, blood flow slows and backs up in the veins of your legs.
This causes fluid to build up in the tissues.
Your feet may appear swollen if fluid builds up in the body, warned the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
If the heart is not working 100 percent, the liquid begins to accumulate slowly.
Blood is pumped throughout the body at a slower rate, and fluid begins to build up in the lower half of the body.
You are more likely to have a heart attack if your blood is pumped around your body at a slower rate than normal.
«Warning signs can appear on your skin and nails, so your dermatologist may be the first doctor to notice that you have heart disease,» the AAD said.
Other lesser-known signs of a heart attack include:
- Pain radiating to the jaw, neck, or shoulder
- breaking out in a cold sweat
- nausea or vomiting
- Rapid onset of intense fatigue
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Sudden feelings of anxiety or doom
- Severe indigestion or heartburn.
Prompt treatment is essential when it comes to a heart attack.
Without it, the blocked heart muscle is at risk of permanent damage the longer blood flow is cut off.
That’s why it’s so important to know the signs of a heart attack and take them seriously.
Any combination of these symptoms should be taken seriously.
A heart attack is a medical emergency. If you suspect one, call 999 and ask for an ambulance.