Heart failure is a condition where the heart isn’t able to pump blood as well as it should. This doesn’t mean the heart has stopped, but that it can’t push blood around the body efficiently. When this happens, certain signs may appear—and one of the most visible is swelling in the feet, also known as peripheral edema.
This swelling happens because when the heart isn’t pumping strongly enough, blood can start to back up in the veins. As pressure builds, fluid leaks out of the blood vessels and into nearby tissues, especially in the lower parts of the body like the legs, ankles, and feet.
This is why many people with heart failure notice their feet getting puffy, especially after standing or sitting for long periods.
But there’s more to it. Heart failure doesn’t just affect how blood moves. It can also reduce how well the kidneys work. When the kidneys don’t remove extra salt and water from the body properly, even more fluid can build up—worsening the swelling.
Swelling caused by heart failure can vary from mild to severe. For some, it may be a bit of puffiness around the ankles by the end of the day. For others, it can become painful and make walking difficult. Swollen feet are often just one part of the picture.
People with heart failure may also feel unusually tired, have trouble breathing (especially when lying down), and need to get up to urinate more often at night.
Because swollen feet can have many causes—not just heart failure—it’s important to see a doctor to figure out what’s really going on. Other possible reasons for swelling include kidney disease, problems with the veins in the legs, or a condition called lymphedema, where fluid builds up due to issues with the lymph system.
If heart failure is the cause, treating the heart is key to managing the swelling. Doctors often prescribe medications like diuretics, which help the body get rid of extra fluid through urine. These “water pills” can reduce swelling and make it easier to breathe. Other heart medications might also be used to improve how the heart works and reduce strain on the body.
Beyond medication, lifestyle changes play a big role. Cutting back on salt, eating a heart-healthy diet, staying active, and keeping a healthy weight can all help reduce swelling and support better heart function. For some people, raising their feet when resting or wearing compression stockings may help keep fluid from pooling in the lower legs.
Newer tools are also helping doctors catch heart failure earlier than ever before. Imaging tests, like echocardiograms, and blood tests that detect certain markers can spot problems even before severe symptoms appear. Early diagnosis means treatment can begin sooner, which can prevent complications like severe swelling.
Living with heart failure may seem overwhelming, but many people manage it well with the right care and support. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare team to create a care plan that fits your needs. Regular check-ups help track your condition and adjust treatments when necessary.
In short, swollen feet can be an early warning sign of heart failure. Understanding why this happens and what it means can help you take the right steps toward better health. With the right treatment, good habits, and ongoing medical support, people with heart failure can reduce symptoms like swollen feet and continue to live well.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about how eating eggs can help reduce heart disease risk, and herbal supplements could harm your heart rhythm.
For more health information, please see recent studies about how drinking milk affects risks of heart disease and cancer, and results showing strawberries could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
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