Three unusual signs that your heart is sick have been identified

Alarming signals on the legs: three unusual signs that may indicate heart problems

Cardiovascular diseases claim about 18 million lives worldwide annually. However, their symptoms are not always obvious. Scientists from the American Academy of Dermatology have drawn attention to three unusual signs that appear on the legs and may signal heart problems.

Osler's nodes

These painful nodules that appear on the toes and fingers can be a warning sign for your health. The nodes persist from several hours to several days and are an indicator of an infection affecting the heart. Despite the fact that they disappear on their own, this condition requires serious medical intervention — usually a course of antibiotics or even surgical treatment.

Leg swelling

Swollen feet, ankles, or legs may not just be a consequence of fatigue, but a serious sign of heart failure. Such swelling occurs due to disruption of normal heart muscle function, which leads to fluid retention in the body and its accumulation in the lower extremities.

Blue toes

An alarming symptom is a change in skin color to a blue or purple hue, especially if this occurs in warm weather. This phenomenon indicates circulatory problems and insufficient oxygen supply to the tissues. Doctors call this condition cyanosis, which, if left untreated, can lead to necrosis of the skin and soft tissues.

Medical professionals emphasize: it's important to pay attention even to such symptoms that seemingly aren't related to the heart. Early detection is the key to timely treatment.