You rely on your feet to take you places, stand in line, exercise, play sports and even dance. But did you know that your feet may also be an early warning system for heart attack?
Feet can offer subtle clues about cardiovascular health — and in some cases, they may show warning signs up to a month (or more) before a heart attack. These signs are not definitive, but they can indicate poor circulation or heart dysfunction that warrants medical attention.
Here are foot-related signs that may appear a month before a heart attack:
1. Cold Feet or Toes
Consistently cold feet, even in warm environments, may signal poor blood flow.
A weakened heart may not pump blood efficiently to the extremities.
2. Swelling (Edema) in Feet and Ankles
Puffy, swollen feet and ankles could be due to fluid retention caused by heart failure.
Often worse at the end of the day or after sitting for long periods.
3. Discoloration (Blue, Purple, or Pale Feet)
A bluish or purplish tinge can signal low oxygen delivery.
Pale or ashen feet may indicate decreased blood flow.
4. Numbness or Tingling
Reduced circulation can cause pins-and-needles or numb sensations.
This may worsen with activity and improve with rest — a possible sign of peripheral artery disease (PAD), often linked with heart disease.
5. Sores or Wounds That Don’t Heal
Poor circulation may prevent the body from healing even small cuts.
Chronic ulcers or slow-healing wounds on the feet are a red flag, especially in diabetics.
6. Pain When Walking (Claudication)
Aching or cramping in the feet or calves during walking may indicate PAD.
This is a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events, including heart attacks.
Important Note:
These signs don’t always mean a heart attack is coming, but they do suggest your cardiovascular system could be compromised.
What to Do If You Notice These Symptoms:
– See a doctor promptly, especially if symptoms are new or worsening.
– Monitor other heart attack warning signs, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, or dizziness.
– Get screened for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and heart function.
