Worldwide, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, responsible for nearly 18 million fatalities annually. This includes conditions that affect the heart and circulatory system such as strokes, coronary heart disease and heart failure.
And in the UK it is just as deadly, causing around a quarter of all deaths. Therefore, spotting the warning signs before it is too late could be life saving.
Many of us are aware of some of the most common symptoms, such as chest pain. However, others are lesser known and less obvious.
In some cases these symptoms can appear in the most unlikely of places – including the skin.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) there is one distinct pattern on the skin that could be a telltale sign of heart problems.
The health authority warns that a blue or purple “net-like” pattern on your skin could signal a blocked artery.
This is called livedo reticularis, which is thought to be due to spasms of the blood vessels or a problem of the blood flow near the skin surface.
In many cases it is nothing to worry about, however, and could be caused by a number of factors such as the cold or certain medications.
The AAD says: “Some people see this pattern on their skin when they feel chilly. When their skin warms up, this pattern disappears.
“It’s also possible to see this pattern when taking certain medications. If one of these is causing the netlike pattern, it’s usually nothing to worry about.”
But it could also signal something more serious. “This netlike pattern can also be a sign of a disease called cholesterol embolization syndrome, which occurs when small arteries become blocked,” the AAD says.
“The blockage can lead to damaged tissues and organs, so it’s important to see a doctor to find out whether you have an undiagnosed disease.”
The Mayo Clinic, in the US, adds that you should speak to your doctor if:
- The discoloured, mottled skin doesn’t go away with warming
- You have discoloured, mottled skin along with other symptoms that concern you
- Painful lumps develop in the affected skin
- Sores develop in the affected skin
- You also have a condition that affects the blood flow in your limbs
- Your skin symptoms are new and you have a connective tissue disease.
Other warning signs of heart disease include:
- Chest pain
- Pain, weakness or numb legs and/or arms
- Breathlessness
- Very fast or slow heartbeat, or palpitations
- Feeling dizzy, lightheaded or faint
- Fatigue
- Swollen limbs.