Today we’d like to bring awareness to American Heart Month, which we observe every February. Did you know the leading cause of death for Americans is heart disease? Although women and men over the age of 45 are at a much greater risk, anyone, no matter their age, ethnicity, or gender, can develop heart disease.

Taking great care of our feet means also taking care of the rest of our body. Some of the most telling signs of heart disease come from the deterioration of the state of our feet. Keep reading to learn some of the top ways you can spot an unhealthy heart through the health of your feet!

Skin Changes

One of the easiest ways to tell whether you’re dealing with heart disease is by checking the color of your skin. If you notice a more blue or purple tint, especially if your feet aren’t cold, pay attention. You may be dealing with poor heart health or a blocked artery.

Swelling

Swelling of the feet, or edema, is one of the main symptoms of heart disease. It can occur in one or both feet, as well as in the legs and ankles. When you have heart failure, fluid accumulates in your body. Because of this, it’s important to call your podiatrist at the first sign of swelling.

Numbness or Pain

When plaque builds up in your arteries, it can limit the blood flow to your limbs and organs. Experiencing numbness in your feet is common with peripheral heart disease. Alternatively, you may have pain in your legs, feet, or ankles.

If you’re experiencing any signs or symptoms of heart disease, call your podiatrist for a check-up as soon as possible!

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, Dr. Anant Joshi, and his staff treat a range of conditions and are committed to providing results. To schedule an appointment, contact his office in Woodland Park, NJ, at 973-256-0002.