4 Ways the Heart Affects the Body

heartconnectionwomanBecause of the heart’s vital role in pumping blood, heart trouble can wreak havoc on other parts of the body. If you experience unexplained physical symptoms like the ones listed below, pay attention — your heart may be trying to tell you something.

Circulation issues. When the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, poor circulation may cause effects all over the body. Peripheral arterial disease, for example, can cause weakness, skin that is cold to the touch and cramping in the legs and feet. Other cardiovascular diseases can cause swelling, pain, or numbness in the legs, ankles, feet or hands.

Cognitive impairments. When the heart’s ability to deliver a steady supply of blood is hindered by disease, it can also impact brain function. For example, when heart failure reduces blood flow to the brain, it can lead to problems with thinking and memory. If heart failure is not treated promptly, the heart becomes weaker, and what started as a mild mental impairment may progress to vascular dementia.

Fatigue. Unusual tiredness can happen for many reasons, but heart problems are a well-known cause. For instance, fatigue can begin to appear months before a heart attack, as an artery grows increasingly blocked. Fatigue can also be a warning sign of heart failure or heart rhythm disturbances such as atrial fibrillation.

Organ malfunctions. When the heart is not functioning properly, other organs may be affected. For example, low blood pressure due to heart failure can cause chronic kidney problems. Heart illnesses can also impact the intestines, liver and many other organs. 

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