Heart Disease: Hands and Feet Can Reveal Heart Attacks
Heart disease, a global health crisis, claimed 17.9 million lives in 2019, with heart attacks and strokes accounting for 85%. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often by fat deposits and cholesterol. Symptoms can extend beyond chest pain, affecting hands and feet.
Numbness or tingling in hands and feet may signal poor blood flow due to blocked arteries. A bluish or purple colour in these areas can indicate insufficient oxygen supply, possibly due to reduced heart function or blocked arteries. Pain radiating to the left arm, shoulder, or hand can also be a sign of a heart attack, as nerves to the heart and arms share the same pathway.
Swelling in the hands and feet, known as edema, can indicate heart failure due to reduced blood pumping ability. Cold or sweaty hands and feet can also signal poor blood circulation caused by heart failure. If you experience these symptoms, consult a cardiologist (Facharzt für Kardiologie) for a detailed diagnosis and treatment. They use methods like EKG and heart ultrasound to assess heart and circulatory diseases.
Heart disease, a leading cause of death worldwide, can manifest in various ways, including symptoms in the hands and feet. Prompt medical attention, including consultation with a cardiologist, is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent heart disease and its complications.
