Swollen Legs and Ankles
Swelling (or edema) in the legs and ankles may be an indicator of heart failure. The heart’s inability to pump blood efficiently often makes it difficult to fully pull back deoxygenated blood from the extremities. This causes you to build fluids up in the ankles, legs and thighs and swell.
Conclusion
Heart failure is a serious medical condition that lowers the quality of life and can have fatal consequences. These signs, on their own, cannot be used as a diagnosis of heart failure. When a combination of these symptoms appears, it is often a sign to seek medical attention. Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis of heart failure. Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying causes can increase the chance of long-term recovery.
Reference:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_heart_failure.htm
[2] https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/5-warning-signs-of-early-heart-failure
[3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142
[4] https://www.healthline.com/health/weight-gain-unintentional#causes
[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/abdomen-swollen#causes
[6] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142