Blue or purple skin discoloration is often due to blood vessel blockage, and tumors appearing on fingers and toes warn of the risk of heart infection.
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the world, but symptoms often persist for years. Below are skin signs that can signal heart disease.
Swelling in the feet and legs
One of the common signs of heart disease that appears on the skin is swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs. This condition occurs when the heart does not pump blood effectively, causing fluid to build up in the tissues. Patients may feel that the shoes are tight or have deep marks on the skin after wearing socks. If leg swelling is accompanied by fatigue or difficulty breathing, the patient should see a doctor.
Blue or purple skin
Some skin areas such as fingers or toes turn blue or purple and do not return to their normal color, which means the blood is not providing enough oxygen and the heart is having problems. This condition signals blood vessel blockage or poor heart function. This is a serious sign that requires prompt medical attention because lack of oxygen can easily damage skin and tissue.
Orange-yellow papules
Yellow or orange lumps or plaques that appear on the skin around the corners of the eyes, elbows, knees, or tops of the feet are fatty deposits caused by high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood. They are not painful but show dangerously high cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease.
The skin has a purple or blue mesh-like pattern
Purple or blue spots that resemble spider webs or nets on the skin are often a sign of cholesterol embolism syndrome. This condition occurs when small arteries become clogged with cholesterol crystals, causing poor blood flow. This sign is not a rash or infection, the patient should see a doctor soon.
Red or purple lines under the nails
Small red or purple lines that look like splinters under the fingernails may be caused by damage to small blood vessels. These lines may be a sign of infective endocarditis, a serious heart infection. They usually last a few days, and patients should not ignore them if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or fatigue.
Painful lumps in fingers or toes
Painful red or purple lumps on fingers or toes, called Osler nodes, are a sign of a heart infection or other cardiovascular problem. These lumps may appear and disappear or last for a long time. When noticing painful lumps like the above, patients should quickly see a doctor.