Millions of Brits are living with heart disease, with an estimated 400,000 living with undiagnosed heart failure. A doctor explains key symptoms including a lesser-known leg sign
Elaine Blackburne Network Content Editor
06:56, 16 Feb 2026Updated 06:56, 16 Feb 2026
There is a sign which can appear in the legs(Image: Getty)
Millions across the UK are living with heart disease, yet a significant proportion remain unaware of their condition. According to the British Heart Foundation, approximately 7.6 million individuals in the UK have heart or circulatory diseases.
Alarmingly, estimates suggest that around 400,000 people have undiagnosed heart failure, whilst roughly five million are living with undetected high blood pressure. This situation has been described as a “ticking timebomb”, with the British Heart Foundation cautioning that the failure to identify those affected is creating a “powder keg” of future health complications that risks devastating families and placing unsustainable strain on UK health services.
Heart disease encompasses various conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It typically develops due to fatty deposits accumulating in the arteries, which can elevate the risk of blood clots forming.
The condition can also lead to damage affecting the brain, heart, kidneys and eyes. Certain blood tests can measure different categories of fats present in the body.
During National Heart Month, which takes place throughout February, Dr Bhavini Shah from LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor has outlined the crucial symptoms of heart disease people should watch for, when urgent medical attention is required – including one less recognised warning sign that manifests in the leg. The specialist also offered practical guidance on minimising heart disease risk, reports the Mirror.
Symptoms of heart disease Whilst chest pain remains one of the most recognised indicators, several other warning signs are less widely understood but could signal something potentially severe.
Chest pain.
Dr Shah notes that chest pain is a frequent symptom of heart disease. Should it present as pressure, tightness, squeezing or heaviness, it may indicate a heart attack, requiring an immediate 999 call.
Shortness of Breath.
Breathlessness is another widely recognised symptom. Dr Shah clarifies that when the heart fails to pump sufficient blood around the body, fluid can accumulate in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties and resulting in shortness of breath.
Irregular heartbeat.
Abnormal heart rhythms can also suggest heart disease. Whilst this may not necessarily connect to a severe condition, it warrants investigation to identify any underlying problems.
Extreme fatigue.
Overwhelming tiredness can also serve as a warning sign, rendering everyday tasks or light exercise utterly draining.
Swelling in the legs.
Dr Shah highlights that leg swelling, medically termed oedema, represents a lesser-known symptom of heart disease and develops when fluid accumulates in the tissue. This typically deteriorates as the day progresses.
Should you experience any of these symptoms and harbour concerns about heart attack risk, it’s crucial to dial 999. Furthermore, the doctor advises seeking medical attention from a GP.
How to reduce your risk of heart disease.
Eating healthily Cutting down on fat intake is a proven method to not only decrease your chances of developing coronary heart disease but also aid in reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The NHS suggests a diet rich in fibre and low in fat, incorporating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, along with whole grains such as oats, rye and brown rice.
The NHS further recommends keeping salt consumption under 6g per day and avoiding saturated fats which can elevate cholesterol levels.
Staying Active.
Dr Shah advocates for regular physical activity as a preventative measure against heart disease. As per the British Heart Foundation, maintaining an active lifestyle can diminish your risk of heart disease by up to 35%.
Regular physical activity also aids in managing your blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels. It’s advised to partake in a minimum of 150 minutes of exercise weekly.
Whether it’s walking, cycling, swimming or attending a fitness class, finding an activity you enjoy could help you maintain consistency and uphold a healthy lifestyle.
Quit Smoking.
According to the British Heart Foundation, quitting smoking is “the single most important step you can take to protect the health of your heart”. They explain: “The chemicals in cigarettes make the walls of your arteries sticky.
This causes fatty material to stick to the walls. The fatty material can begin to clog your arteries and reduce the space for blood to flow properly.
Smoking can also affect your heart and blood vessels by:.
Limit Alcohol Consumption.
Another method to lower your risk of heart disease is consuming alcohol moderately. NHS guidance states that both men and women shouldn’t exceed 14 units of alcohol weekly, and these units ought to be distributed across a minimum of three days rather than consumed in one sitting.
There’s a connection between excessive alcohol consumption and elevated blood pressure. Consistently surpassing the recommended 14 units weekly over a decade can heighten your chances of developing heart disease or experiencing a stroke.
Achieving quality rest.
Insufficient sleep may lead to an elevated risk of heart disease. A healthy adult requires between seven and nine hours nightly.
Youngsters, children and infants will require more, ranging from eight to 16 hours. Implementing minor yet achievable adjustments to your daily habits can significantly benefit your heart health.