Skin Changes and Heart Health

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Are you paying attention to the changes to your skin? The doctors at The Center for Podiatric Care and Sports Medicine encourage patients to inspect their feet and ankles daily. Changes may be early signs that your heart isn’t working correctly. It starts with how well blood is flowing through your body and to your limbs. If the statements below describe your symptoms, it’s time to make an appointment with your podiatrist.

My feet are swelling.
The cause of swelling might be due to a recent injury, a reaction to a medication, or even an allergy. Prolonged swelling can also be a sign of something more telling poor circulation. When fluid builds up, it often starts in your feet. The fluid can go up as far as your legs. If you notice that swelling doesn’t go away with an improved injury or medication, schedule an appointment to diagnose the cause.

My skin is blue or purple.

Love the skin you’re in by knowing how to identify when something is wrong. If you see blue or purple, these colors can indicate a circulation problem. Your blood may not be getting the oxygen that it needs. When skin is cold, it can turn blue. If your skin is warm and still a different color, don’t ignore the signs. Poor circulation means that nutrient-rich blood that carries oxygen is no longer reaching your entire body. Act fast when you see changes.

Pay attention to your skin this American Heart Month. You may notice the first signs of heart disease and reduce your risk for complications. At The Center for Podiatric Care and Sports Medicine, Dr. Jonathan Levy, Dr. Nadia Levy, Dr. Diane Castro, Dr. Josef Geldwert, Dr. Katherine Lai, and Dr. Vera Malezhik treat a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, ankle pain, diabetic wounds, heel pain, ingrown toenails, plantar warts, and neuromas. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, we offer cutting-edge care for patients in Midtown East and Manhattan. Contact our office at (212) 980-6487. Our office is at 120 E 56th Street, Suite 1150, New York, NY 10022. We continue to offer telemedicine appointments.