Heart attacks are serious medical emergencies that require immediate attention from a doctor. You could be at risk of a deadly heart attack – or myocardial infarction – if you develop painful purple bumps on your skin, it’s been claimed.

Heart attacks are caused by a lack of blood reaching the heart.

Without enough blood, the heart could become seriously damaged – and it may even be life-threatening.

A heart attack could also be a symptom of coronary heart disease, which is where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, which limits the amount of blood reaching the heart.

One of the key warning signs of heart disease is developing so-called Osler nodes.

Osler nodes are a type of raised bump that are usually a red/purple colour.

They may be slightly painful, and are usually found on the fingers or toes.

The bumps may be a sign of an underlying heart infection, which is known as infective endocarditis.

This infection may be raising your risk of heart disease, according to the Florida Dermatology and Skin Cancer Centers.

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“Did you know that your dermatologist may be the first person to detect early signs of cardiovascular or heart disease?,” it said.

“Discoloured lesions [Janeway lesions] and painful nodules [Osler nodes] that appear on the hands and feet are rare but well-documented signs of a heart infection called infective endocarditis.

“Osler nodes are painful, tender red-purple bumps that develop most commonly on the fingers and toes. They can last for hours to days.

“Treating the underlying heart infection resolves both lesions and nodes.”

But just because you develop Osler nodes, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have heart disease.

They may also be caused by an allergic or an immunological response.

The nodules are more likely to be caused by heart disease if they’re accompanied by any of the more common symptoms.

You should speak to a doctor if you develop any new painful nodules.

The most common heart attack symptoms include severe chest pain, having a radiating pain in your arm, and suddenly feeling very dizzy.

But you can lower your risk of a heart attack by making some small diet or lifestyle changes.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet will lower your chances of fatty deposits in your arteries.

If you think you, or someone you know, may be having a heart attack, it’s crucial that you dial 999 straight away.

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