Your Feet and Heart Disease

Today we’d like to take some time to recognize that February is American Heart Month. And throughout the month, people are encouraged to raise awareness about heart disease and prevention. Today, Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists is doing just that by sharing information regarding some symptoms of heart disease.

Even though research and medicine have been quite helpful in combating heart disease, there is still a long way to go. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that heart disease is still the leading cause of death among women and men in the country. Women 55 years of age and older and men 45 years and older are facing a higher risk.

Signs of heart disease can have an effect on many different parts of the body, including the feet and legs. The following are some symptoms pertaining to the feet and legs that could be revealing signs of heart disease.

Pain and numbness: These symptoms in the feet can be a sign of peripheral artery disease. With this disease, plaque accumulates in the arteries and restricts the blood flow to your limbs and organs.

Poor Circulation: Vascular disease can cause poor blood circulation if the heart can’t pump enough blood to its extremities. Some signs of poor circulation include an inability to feel the pulse in your feet, shiny skin on your legs and feet, and hair loss on the toes.

Swelling: When heart failure occurs, it can cause fluid to build up in the body and feet and ankles begin to swell. This can also develop in other body parts, and lead to sudden weight gain.

Although these could be signs of heart disease, having other ankle and foot problems that cause immobility can stop you from getting the recommended amount of exercise needed to maintain a healthy heart.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or you are suffering from any foot problems that are causing immobility, contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists at (425) 455-0936 today to book your visit or schedule an appointment online. We’ll recommend treatment options that will get you back to your normal activities and keep your heart healthy!