The claim that “one month before a heart attack, your feet will warn you” has no solid medical backing. According to trusted sources like Healthline and MedlinePlus, early signs of heart disease or an impending heart attack tend to appear elsewhere in the body (e.g. chest, arms, fatigue, shortness of breath).
That said, swelling (edema) in the legs, ankles, or feet can be a symptom associated with heart problems—especially heart failure or circulatory issues. In such cases, the heart’s reduced efficiency causes fluid to build up in lower parts of the body. Also, poor blood supply to extremities may lead to sensations like pain, burning, numbness, or cooler skin, pointing to circulatory compromise.
Other commonly recognized prodromal (warning) signs that may emerge weeks before a heart attack include:
- Unusual, persistent fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Chest discomfort (pressure, heaviness)
- Sweating, nausea, or a general sense of anxiety or impending doom
- Swelling in lower extremities (legs/ankles/feet)
If you or someone else experiences any of these—notably chest pain, breathlessness, severe dizziness, or sudden swelling—it’s important to seek medical attention promptly rather than waiting. Early detection can make a big difference.
