Swelling in Legs Could Signal Life-Threatening Heart Failure, Warn Doctors
Liverpool, UK – Persistent leg swelling, alongside a range of other seemingly unrelated symptoms, could be a critical warning sign of heart failure, a possibly fatal condition, health experts are urging. Recognizing these indicators is vital for early diagnosis and treatment, substantially improving outcomes for those affected.
Heart failure doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working, but that it’s unable to pump blood around the body efficiently enough. This can lead to a build-up of fluid, frequently enough manifesting as swelling in the legs, ankles and feet. Though, doctors emphasize that symptoms can be varied and easily dismissed, making awareness crucial.
Other indications of heart failure include breathlessness – which may occur after activity or at rest, worsening when lying down and potentially waking you up at night; fatigue; feeling lightheaded and fainting; a persistent cough, potentially worse at night; wheezing; a bloated tummy; loss of appetite; unexplained weight gain or loss; confusion; a fast heart rate; and noticeable palpitations – a pounding, fluttering or irregular heartbeat. Feelings of depression and anxiety can also accompany the condition.
The NHS advises individuals experiencing persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure to consult their GP. “See your GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure,” the health service states. In cases of sudden or very severe symptoms, immediate medical attention is critical. The NHS urges people to “Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest accident and emergency (AandE) department as soon as possible.”
