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When we talk about heart health, we often think about the heart, the lungs and the blood pressure. But did you know that your feet can be a key indicator of your cardiovascular health? Pain, numbness or swelling may be symptoms of poor circulation and an increased risk of heart disease.
So what are the warning signs that you shouldn't ignore? Here's what your feet can teach you about your heart.
Poor traffic: a threat to your feet
The heart pumps blood all over the body, including the feet. However, when the arteries are partially or completely obstructed, the blood flow decreases, depriving oxygen tissues. This phenomenon is called peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and mainly affects the legs and feet.
Warning signs to be monitored:
Pain in the feet or legs when walking, which disappears with rest
Numbness or tingling in the feet
Wovies that heal slowly or do not heal at all
Cold feet or pale skin (sign of poor circulation)
Hair loss on legs and feet (indicating poor blood circulation)
If you notice such symptoms, be sure to see a doctor to assess your blood flow and prevent any complications.
Screening of blocked arteries
To detect obstructed arteries, doctors may perform an ankle-arm index (IBF) test. This simple test compares the blood pressure in your ankle with that on your arm for any decrease in blood circulation.
A weak result may indicate peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a condition that increases the risk of stroke and heart failure.
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