Pain or numbness in the legs when walking – You might experience pain in the legs during and after exercise but if the pain stops when you’re no longer moving, it could be a sign of peripheral vascular disease.
A persistent cough – If you have a persistent cough and a family history of heart disease, it could be a sign of trouble. White or pink mucus is a definite cause for concern as they are linked to heart failure.
Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet – Any swelling in the extremities could indicate that there’s an issue with your circulation. Heart failure can also affect how well the kidneys work, which in turn causes swelling in the lower limbs.
Swollen or bleeding gums – Poor oral hygiene aside, dentists have established a definite link between gum disease and a poorly functioning heart. Consistent swelling or bleeding in the gums is a clear indication to see your doctor.
Yellow bumps on the skin – These yellow bumps occur under the skin when your cholesterol levels are too high. These fat deposits can appear on the eyelids, knees, elbows, hands, or feet.
Male pattern baldness – According to some reliable studies, there’s a link between losing hair at the top of the head and heart disease. Health professionals have suggested that it’s caused by high levels of testosterone which can affect hair growth and harden the arteries.
Additional Considerations For African Americans
According to recent statistics, African Americans are more likely to be affected by heart disease than other ethnicities. African American women, in particular, are almost twice as likely to have a stroke. Even though many women over the age of 20 are being affected by heart disease, only a small percentage of them realize how serious it can be. This information makes it even more important for black women to pay attention to changes in their bodies that could point to an issue with their hearts.
While it’s true that these physical changes don’t always point to an issue with your heart, there’s no harm in confirming things with your doctor. A regular check-up might show heart disease, another underlying condition, or nothing at all. When it comes to your health, it’s always better to know.