Heart failure is a serious condition that affects many people, and it can sometimes be hard to spot, especially in its early stages. One of the signs you should be aware of is leg swelling, also known as oedema. The NHS has highlighted this as a key symptom, which could indicate that your heart is not working as it should.

What is Heart Failure?

First, let’s understand what heart failure actually is. Heart failure happens when your heart is too weak or stiff to pump blood around your body as it should. This can cause a build-up of fluids in your body, leading to various symptoms. Heart failure can get worse over time and is often a long-term condition. Unfortunately, it is not something that can usually be cured, but the symptoms can often be managed with the right treatment.

What is Oedema (Leg Swelling)?

One of the main signs of heart failure is oedema, which means swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles. This happens because your heart is not able to pump blood efficiently, and fluid starts to build up in the tissues. The fluid can leak out of your blood vessels and into the surrounding tissue, causing swelling.

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At first, you might notice that your legs feel a little puffy, especially by the end of the day. Some people also experience swelling in their feet or ankles. While this might improve after a night’s sleep, it often gets worse as the day goes on.

You might feel discomfort or heaviness in your legs, making it hard to walk or stand for long periods. In more severe cases, the skin may become shiny or tight, and you could see indentations when you press your finger on the swollen area.

Other Causes of Leg Swelling

While oedema is commonly linked to heart failure, it can also be caused by other things. These can include:

• Standing or sitting for long periods: Staying in one position for too long can cause fluid to build up in your legs.
• Eating too much salt: A diet high in salt can cause your body to retain water, leading to swelling.
• Being overweight: Extra weight can put more pressure on your veins, leading to swelling.
• Pregnancy: The extra fluid and pressure from carrying a baby can cause swelling in the legs and feet.
• Medications: Some drugs, including certain blood pressure medicines, hormone therapies, and antidepressants, can cause swelling.
• Injuries: Sprains or strains can lead to local swelling.
• Infections or insect bites: These can cause swelling in the affected area.
• Kidney or liver problems: Both conditions can affect your body’s ability to get rid of extra fluid.

If you notice any of these signs of swelling, it’s important to pay attention to how your body feels and consider getting medical advice.

Other Signs of Heart Failure to Watch Out For

Besides swelling in the legs, there are other symptoms that might indicate heart failure. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to see a doctor:

1. Breathlessness: You might feel short of breath, even when resting or doing light activities. This can sometimes get worse when lying down at night, and you may even wake up struggling to catch your breath.
2. Tiredness (Fatigue): If you’re always feeling tired, even after rest, or find it hard to exercise, it could be another sign of heart failure.
3. Feeling Lightheaded or Fainting: A weak heart can cause low blood pressure, which may make you feel dizzy or faint.
4. Persistent Cough or Wheezing: A cough that doesn’t go away, especially at night, could be a sign of fluid in your lungs, which can happen with heart failure.
5. Changes in Weight: Unexpected weight gain or loss can happen when your body retains fluid or has trouble processing nutrients.
6. Confusion or Memory Loss: Sometimes, heart failure can affect the brain, leading to confusion or difficulty concentrating.
7. Fast or Irregular Heartbeat: If your heart starts beating quickly or irregularly (known as palpitations), it might be a sign of heart trouble.
8. Loss of Appetite: Feeling full or not hungry can happen when the body is under stress due to heart failure.
9. Depression or Anxiety: Having a chronic illness like heart failure can affect your mental health, and feelings of depression or anxiety are common.

What Should You Do if You Have These Symptoms?

If you notice any of the symptoms of heart failure, it’s important not to ignore them. The NHS advises that if you notice persistent or gradually worsening symptoms, you should see your GP (general practitioner) as soon as possible. Early treatment can help prevent the condition from getting worse.

However, if you experience sudden or severe symptoms, like extreme difficulty breathing or sudden, severe swelling, you should get immediate medical help. Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E department.

How is Heart Failure Treated?

While heart failure can’t usually be cured, there are treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment plan will depend on the cause of heart failure, but it usually includes:

• Medications: These can help the heart pump more effectively and reduce symptoms like swelling and shortness of breath.
• Lifestyle changes: Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and avoiding excess salt can help manage symptoms.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to address the underlying cause of heart failure, like repairing a damaged heart valve or implanting a device to help the heart pump.

Heart failure is a serious condition that affects many people, and it’s important to recognize the warning signs early. Leg swelling, or oedema, is one of the key symptoms to watch out for. If you experience swelling in your legs, feet, or ankles, especially if it gets worse later in the day, it could be a sign of heart failure.

Other symptoms to be aware of include shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get medical advice from your doctor as soon as possible. Early intervention can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.

Remember, if you have sudden or severe symptoms, get immediate help by calling an ambulance or going to A&E.