Early Warning Signs Of Heart Failure

Swelling In Legs And Feet

Swelling in legs and feet may indicate circulation troubles that develop from heart problems. Swelling may start in one ankle or foot and then increase to include both of the lower legs, ankles, and feet. Four valves in the heart, the mitral, tricuspid, aortic, and pulmonary valves control the blood flow. As blood returns from the body, it enters the heart through the tricuspid and mitral valves, which are open while the aortic and pulmonary valves are closed. When blood is pumped out of the heart, the tricuspid and mitral valves are closed, and the aortic and pulmonary valves are open.

The coordination of the opening and closing of the heart valves allows the heart to pump the blood properly. Having enough heart muscle strength, along with working heart valves, provides adequate blood circulation throughout the body. Swelling in the lower extremities may be caused when the heart valves are damaged and not working correctly.

Keep reading to learn information about the next early warning sign of heart failure.