Individuals are being advised to look out for an uncomfortable and sometimes painful symptom in the ankles, which could be a warning sign of a life-threatening health issue. The has highlighted that swelling in this area is a key indicator of heart failure.
Medically referred to as oedema, this condition can also impact the feet and legs, potentially making mobility more challenging. According to the NHS, this symptom might seem less severe in the morning but "get worse later in the day".
Heart failure is characterised by the heart's inability to efficiently circulate blood throughout the body, often due to the heart becoming too weak or rigid. 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."
Specialists at clarified that heart failure leads to increased within the vessels because the heart isn't pumping as effectively as it should. "This elevation in pressure forces fluid out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling, or oedema," they explained.
Oedema may manifest as swollen or puffy ankles, feet, or legs, skin that appears shiny or stretched, changes in skin colour, discomfort, stiffness, and indentations when the skin is pressed. But, this condition doesn't necessarily mean you have heart failure as there are other potential causes.
Remaining in the same position for extended periods, consuming excessive salty food, being overweight, , and certain medications – such as some blood pressure drugs, contraceptive pills, hormone therapy, antidepressants or steroids can all contribute to oedema. Other factors include injuries like strains or sprains, insect bites or stings, kidney or liver issues, blood clots, and infections.
Other symptoms of heart failure that you should not ignore include:
- Breathlessness – this may occur after activity or at rest; it may be worse when you're lying down, and you may wake up at night needing to catch your breath
- Fatigue – you may feel tired most of the time and find exercise exhausting
- Feeling lightheaded and fainting
- A persistent cough, which may be worse at night
- Wheezing
- A bloated tummy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Confusion
- A fast heart rate
- A pounding, fluttering or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Some people with heart failure may also experience feelings of depression and anxiety.
The NHS advises: "See your GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure."
"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."
