Feet can be an early warning system for heart health, signaling conditions like heart disease and clogged arteries. Often overlooked, your feet may show symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD), both of which involve plaque buildup in arteries, restricting blood flow.
What is PAD?
PAD is a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to limbs, often affecting the feet and legs. Symptoms include cold feet, slow-healing wounds, pain while walking, and discoloration of the feet. If ignored, PAD can lead to severe complications like infection or amputation.
What is CAD?
CAD is a form of atherosclerosis that affects the arteries supplying blood to the heart. Symptoms of CAD in the feet include swelling, tingling or numbness, skin changes, and foot pain at rest. CAD can increase the risk of heart attacks and is often linked with PAD.
Prevention and Care
To prevent complications from PAD and CAD, exercise regularly to improve circulation, eat a heart-healthy diet, and avoid smoking. Managing stress and blood sugar levels is also crucial, as is maintaining regular check-ups. Your feet may provide critical clues about your cardiovascular health, so don’t ignore unusual symptoms like swelling or pain.
