Your Feet Could Be Telling You Your Heart Is in Trouble — Don’t Ignore These Signs
When you think about heart health, you probably imagine chest pain, shortness of breath, or high blood pressure. But here’s the surprising truth: your feet are often the first to send warnings about serious heart problems like clogged arteries and cardiovascular disease.
Feet may be small, but they’re powerful messengers. Overlooked for years, they can reveal hidden dangers like peripheral artery disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD) — both caused by plaque buildup that narrows arteries and blocks blood flow.
What is PAD?
Peripheral artery disease happens when narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to your limbs, most often your legs and feet. Plaque — a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other substances — stiffens and narrows arteries, making circulation difficult.
Early signs in your feet include:
Cold feet: Persistent chill even in warm weather.
Slow-healing wounds: Cuts or blisters that refuse to heal.
Pain while walking: Cramping or aching in your feet and legs during activity that eases with rest.
Discoloration: Feet turning pale, bluish, or purplish.
Ignoring PAD can lead to serious complications like infections, gangrene, or even amputation. Plus, PAD often signals that plaque may also be clogging arteries near your heart and brain.
What is CAD?