2. Swelling of the Legs, Ankles, and Feet – The Telltale Signs of Fluid Retention
Another symptom indicative of an enlarged heart is swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. This symptom, also known as edema, occurs when your heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently. Inefficient blood flow can lead to fluid accumulating in your body’s tissues, primarily in the lower extremities.
Edema might seem harmless at first, starting as a slight puffiness in the ankles or feet. But as fluid continues to build up, the swelling becomes more noticeable and may even be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the affected areas. In severe cases, the fluid buildup can extend up to the abdomen, leading to a condition known as ascites, further underscoring the severity of the heart condition.
It’s essential to note that the swelling associated with an enlarged heart is usually symmetrical, affecting both sides of the body equally. Also, applying pressure to the swollen area may leave a dent, a phenomenon known as pitting edema. While these characteristics can help distinguish cardiac-related edema, a proper diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare professional.
Edema can be a sign of several other health conditions too, including kidney or liver disease. Therefore, it’s important not to self-diagnose but to seek medical attention if you notice persistent and unexplained swelling in any body part, especially the legs, ankles, and feet. (2)
