Harvard-affiliated dermatologists have spotlighted skin and nail symptoms that may signal underlying heart conditions, highlighting the skin’s role as a vital diagnostic window into cardiovascular health. Key warning signs include:

1. Swelling in the feet and lower legs (edema) – indicative of poor circulation due to a weakened heart.

2. Blue or purple discoloration (cyanosis) on fingers or toes suggesting low blood oxygen levels.

3. Waxy yellowish-orange bumps (xanthelasma and xanthomas) linked to high cholesterol—a known heart‑disease risk factor.

4. Net‑like purple patterns on the skin (livedo reticularis) caused by blocked arteries or cholesterol emboli.

5. Nail abnormalities like clubbing or tiny red lines (splinter hemorrhages) which can signal low oxygen or infective endocarditis.

Other concerning signs include painful lumps in fingers or toes (Osler nodes), Janeway lesions on the palms or soles, and nodules from amyloidosis—an abnormal protein deposit affecting the hear . Although these symptoms aren’t exclusive to heart conditions, experts stress that their presence—especially alongside fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort—warrants prompt medical evaluation.

Dermatologists advise regular monitoring of skin changes, especially for individuals over 40 or those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity, to facilitate early detection and intervention.