Your Feet and Heart Disease

Today we’d like to recognize that February is American Heart Month. In observation, individuals are encouraged to raise awareness about heart disease and how to prevent it. Today Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland is doing just that by sharing information regarding some common signs of heart disease. 

Although research and medicine have helped fight heart disease, there’s still a long way to go. In fact, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reveals that heart disease remains the leading cause of death among women and men in the country today. And women who are 55 years of age and older and men who are 45 years and older face a higher risk. 

Some signs of heart disease can affect various parts of the body, including the legs and feet. Here are some symptoms relating to the legs and feet that could be a sign of heart disease. 

Diminished Circulation: If the heart can’t pump enough blood to a person’s extremities, vascular disease can cause reduced blood circulation. Some signs of this include not being able to feel the pulse in your feet, hair loss on the toes and shiny skin on your feet and legs.

 Swelling: When heart failure happens, it can make fluid build-up in the body, causing feet and ankles to swell. This can also happen in other body parts, leading to rapid weight gain.

 Numbness and Pain: When these symptoms occur in the feet it can be an indication of peripheral artery disease. When this happens, plaque builds up in the arteries and limits the blood flow to your organs and limbs.

Although these could be an indication of heart disease, having other foot and ankle problems that cause immobility can prevent you from getting the amount of exercise you need to maintain a healthy heart.

 If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or you are suffering from any foot conditions that are affecting your mobility, contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland in Anne Arundel County, Maryland today to book your visit or schedule an appointment online. The office is conveniently located in Glen Burnie and when you visit, we’ll recommend treatment options that will get you back to your normal activities and keep your heart healthy!