NHS says red flag symptom in legs could be sign of heart failure

The NHS has issued a warning to be vigilant over an uncomfortable symptom in the legs that could indicate a potentially life-threatening medical condition. The health service highlights that swelling in the legs is a red flag for heart failure.

This is a condition known as oedema, which can also impact the feet and ankles, making walking difficult. It might improve in the morning but "get worse later in the day" according to the NHS.

Heart failure is characterised by the heart's inability to efficiently circulate blood throughout the body, often due to it becoming too weak or stiff. The NHS notes: "Heart failure is a long-term condition that tends to get gradually worse over time."

READ MORE: Test you can do lying down may show if you have a health condition in minutes

READ MORE: Doctor names three foods that could help burn body fat and lower disease risk

"It cannot usually be cured, but the symptoms can often be controlled for many years." Medical News Today experts add that heart failure leads to increased blood pressure within the vessels because the heart can't pump effectively.

"This elevation in pressure forces fluid out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling, or oedema," they explain. Oedema may manifest as swollen or puffy ankles, feet, or legs, skin that appears shiny or stretched, changes in skin colour, discomfort, stiffness, and indentations when pressing on the skin.

It can also arise from other causes:

Standing or sitting in the same position for too long Eating too much salty food Being overweight Being pregnant Taking certain medicines – such as some blood pressure medicines, contraceptive pills, Hormone therapy, antidepressants or steroids An injury – such as a strain or sprain An insect bite or sting Problems with your kidneys or liver A blood clot An infection

Other symptoms of heart failure to look out for include breathlessness, which may occur after activity or at rest, and may worsen when lying down. You may also wake up at night needing to catch your breath.

Fatigue is another sign, where you may feel tired most of the time and find exercise exhausting. Feeling lightheaded and fainting are other indicators.

Less common symptoms of heart failure can include a persistent cough, which may be worse at night, wheezing, a bloated tummy, loss of appetite, weight gain or weight loss, confusion, a fast heart rate, and a pounding, fluttering or irregular heartbeat (palpitations). Some people with heart failure may also experience feelings of depression and anxiety.

The NHS advises: "See your GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure." It adds: "Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department as soon as possible if you have sudden or very severe symptoms."