Cardiovascular disease reigns as the top killer globally , claiming nearly 18 million lives each year, including conditions that impact the heart and blood vessels like strokes, coronary heart disease, and heart failure .
It's just as lethal in the US , claiming the lives of around 695,000 people a year, accounting for about one in five of all deaths. That's why recognizing the early signs is crucial to prevent a tragic outcome.
While most people are aware of common symptoms such as chest pain, there are other, less obvious indicators that could be easily missed. Sometimes these signs can show up in the most unexpected places, even on the skin .
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has identified a specific skin pattern that might be an indicator of cardiac issues. The AAD cautions that a blue or purple "net-like" pattern on your skin, known as livedo reticularis, could suggest an obstructed artery.
This condition is believed to result from either spasms in the blood vessels or an issue with blood circulation near the skin's surface. Often it's not a cause for concern and may stem from various benign factors like cold temperatures or certain medications.
The AAD explains: "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."
Yet, this symptom may also hint at more alarming issues. According to the AAD, "This netlike pattern can also be a sign of a disease called cholesterol embolization syndrome, which occurs when small arteries become blocked," and stressing the urgency, they note, "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 advises that a doctor should be consulted 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.
They continue, listing additional symptoms that could foretell heart problems:
- 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.
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