9. Swelling of Extremities – A Silent Sign
Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or even in the abdomen can be a sign of heart disease. This symptom, known as edema, occurs when your heart doesn’t pump blood effectively. The blood can back up into your veins, causing fluid to accumulate in the tissues of your lower extremities.
Edema related to heart disease often starts in the lower extremities. You may notice that your shoes feel tighter, or there might be indentations on your skin from your socks. In severe cases, the swelling can even make movement difficult.
Another form of swelling that can occur due to heart disease is abdominal bloating. This happens when the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid accumulation in the abdomen. It can cause discomfort and might even interfere with your appetite.
It’s important to note that while swelling can be due to many different reasons, such as a sprained ankle or a long flight, persistent or unexplained swelling should not be ignored. If you’ve noticed swelling in your extremities or abdomen, especially if it’s accompanied by other heart disease symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. (9)
