According to Oriental medicine, the feet are considered the body’s “second brain.” Not only do they support body weight, but they also contain numerous acupuncture points connected to internal organs. Because of this, changes in the feet can serve as indicators of overall health.

Despite their crucial role, the feet are often overlooked in favor of more visible body parts like the hair, ears, nose, and mouth. However, examining your feet regularly can reveal underlying health issues. If you notice any of the following three signs, it may indicate that your internal organs are experiencing distress.

1. Swollen Feet: A Sign of Heart Failure, Kidney Disease, or Liver Cirrhosis

Health experts from Harvard Medical School (USA) note that swollen feet are commonly attributed to sprains, muscle strains, or venous insufficiency. However, persistent swelling can also signal more serious conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, or cirrhosis.

When the heart is weakened, its lower chambers (the left and right ventricles) struggle to pump blood efficiently. This impairs circulation, leading to fluid buildup in the veins and causing swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles. If swelling is accompanied by shortness of breath and fatigue, you should consult a cardiologist immediately.

Swelling in the legs is also a common symptom in advanced stages of cirrhosis (F3 and F4). As liver function deteriorates, changes in hormone levels and fluid regulation increase pressure in the blood vessels. This disrupts circulation, causing blood from the spleen and intestines to be redirected toward the pancreas and liver. As a result, fluid accumulates, leading to ascites (abdominal swelling) and leg edema.

Additionally, swollen feet can be a sign of kidney disease. When the kidneys are damaged, they lose their ability to filter waste properly, leading to fluid retention in various parts of the body, including the feet, ankles, and face.

2. Yellow Feet: A Warning for Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreatic Disorders

Yellowing of the feet can be linked to jaundice, but it may also indicate serious conditions such as cholangitis, gallstones, cirrhosis, liver cancer, or pancreatic cancer. These diseases interfere with bilirubin metabolism, causing the skin to take on a yellow hue. Jaundice is most visible on the feet, hands, eyes, and face.

To assess liver and gallbladder health, it is advisable to undergo tests for liver enzymes, liver function, bile health, hepatitis viruses, and perform an ultrasound of the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.