Heart failure warning: Try this quick 5-second leg test to know if you are at risk

A doctor has shared a simple five-second test that could reveal signs of serious health conditions such as heart failure, kidney disease, or liver problems. The quick check, which involves pressing down on your leg to see if a dent remains, has gained attention after being explained by Dr Sermed Mezher on TikTok. Known medically as pitting oedema, this swelling occurs when excess fluid builds up in the body. While sometimes harmless, for example, after long flights, pregnancy, or standing too long, persistent swelling can be an early warning of an underlying disease.The test is straightforward: press your finger firmly on the lower leg or ankle for around five seconds. If a noticeable dent remains in the skin instead of springing back quickly, this may indicate pitting oedema. This occurs when fluid accumulates in the tissues and the skin becomes less elastic.According to Dr Mezher, this can happen for a variety of reasons. In many cases, it is temporary and linked to lifestyle factors such as standing on your feet all day, sitting still on a long journey, or exposure to hot weather. However, if the swelling is persistent, worsening, or affecting only one leg, it could signal something more serious. The test does not provide a diagnosis on its own but can be an important early clue to underlying health issues. Doctors usually follow it up with clinical assessments, blood tests, or scans to identify the exact cause.Not all cases of pitting oedema are serious. Swelling may occur after standing for extended periods, sitting during long journeys, or in hot weather. It can also appear during pregnancy or in people who are overweight. In these situations, the swelling is usually temporary and improves with rest, leg elevation, or light exercise.Persistent or unexplained swelling can be a red flag. Pitting oedema may point to heart failure, where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, causing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues. It can also signal kidney or liver disease, both of which affect the body’s ability to regulate fluid balance. In some cases, swelling in just one leg may suggest a blood clot, such as deep vein thrombosis.The NHS lists swollen legs and ankles as a common symptom of heart failure, often worse in the evening and improving overnight. Other signs include:Dr Mezher stresses that while the leg test is useful, it is not a diagnosis. Anyone with persistent or unexplained swelling should seek medical advice. A GP may order blood tests, an echocardiogram, or an ultrasound scan to determine the underlying cause. “If you notice pitting oedema, it’s important to get checked,” he said.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine or treatment.