Experts say sign in feet can be red flag for life-threatening condition

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Experts have warned that certain signs in your feet and ankles could be a red flag for heart failure.

Almost half of those suffering from heart failure exhibit early signs which, if detected, could prevent them from becoming seriously ill. Heart failure, which affects about a million people in the UK, means that the heart is unable to pump blood around the body properly, usually because it has become too weak or stiff.

This serious condition can lead to heart attacks and severely impact a person's quality of life. It can be caused by a heart attack or a disease called cardiomyopathy, but high blood pressure also increases your risk. The British Heart Foundation reveals that 40 per cent of heart failure patients have symptoms that 'should have triggered an earlier assessment'.

Ignoring key symptoms is the worst thing patients can do, as drugs and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the chances of the condition worsening. The NHS has highlighted a clear symptom in the feet and ankles - swelling in these areas due to fluid build-up, also known as oedema, reports Gloucestershire Live.

This may improve in the morning and worsen later in the day. If one or both of your ankles, feet, or legs are swollen and don't improve after a few days or get worse, you should contact your GP. Oedema can also be caused by an injury such as a strain or sprain, an insect bite or sting, problems with your kidneys, liver or heart, a blood clot, or an infection.

There are multiple critical signs of heart failure to be aware of - breathlessness that can present itself both after exertion or when at rest, and might worsen while laying down or even wake you up during the night. Chronic fatigue is another warning sign - feeling constantly worn out and finding exercise debilitating. Also, if you find yourself feeling dizzy or passing out, it could be indicative of heart failure.

Less typical symptoms may include experiencing depression, anxiety, wheezing, and a loss of appetite. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen - it's advised to contact your GP promptly. The British Heart Foundation has explained: "Heart failure means that the heart isn't working as well as it should. One effect of this can be extra fluid in your body. This can cause rapid weight gain and can cause swelling in the ankles, feet or legs, or sometimes around the stomach. Fluid can also build up in the lungs, which can cause breathlessness."

For more information visit the NHS information page here.

Conditions that can lead to heart failure include:

• coronary heart disease - where the arteries that supply blood to the heart become clogged up with fatty substances (atherosclerosis), which may cause angina or a heart attack
• high blood pressure - this can put extra strain on the heart, which over time can lead to heart failure
• conditions affecting the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy)
• heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), such as atrial fibrillation
• damage or other problems with the heart valves
• congenital heart disease - birth defects that affect the normal workings of the heart