Is it possible to look at one’s face and predict the risk of a stroke or heart attack? Fertility expert Dr Christabel Akinola recently shared how a doctor convinced a patient’s husband to consult a cardiologist when she saw a diagonal crease on his right ear. “What if I told you that just by looking at your face, you could tell if you are at risk of a heart attack? Or detect heart disease before it’s too late? A 57-year-old man brought his sick wife to the hospital’s clinic for an upset stomach and diarrhea. The doctor attended to her and prescribed her necessary medications. The doctor noticed something peculiar.
A deep diagonal crease — known as Frank’s sign — on his earlobe. The doctor explained that this crease is often found in people with a higher risk of stroke and heart attack,” Dr Akinola said on Instagram.
Heeding the advice, the man sought a cardiologist’s opinion. “He seemed fine, but something in the doctor’s gut said otherwise. She advised him to see a cardiologist. Within hours, an ECG revealed an abnormal heart rhythm. Further tests, including a troponin level and an angiogram, confirmed severe coronary artery disease. He was on the brink of a major heart attack and was rushed for an emergency intervention. A few days later, the husband and wife left the hospital, grateful for the sharp eyes of a doctor who didn’t ignore a simple ear crease,” said Dr Akinola.
Is it true?
A deep diagonal crease on the earlobe, often called Frank’s sign, has been observed in some studies as a potential indicator of an increased risk for heart disease or stroke, said Dr Swarup Swaraj Pal, senior consultant, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon, Gleneagles Hospitals Parel.
“While the exact cause of this crease is not fully understood, it is believed to reflect changes in blood vessels due to ageing or poor circulation, which are conditions also linked to cardiovascular issues,” said Dr Pal.
However, Dr Pal noted that having this crease does not guarantee you will have a heart attack or stroke, nor does its absence mean you’re in the clear.
Is it a sign? (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
“Don’t believe anything that is blindly forwarded on social media. It is one of many possible signs and should not be used alone for diagnosis. It is better to speak to the expert and clear all the doubts. Other more reliable indicators include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and lifestyle factors that can raise the risk of a heart disease or stroke,” said Dr Pal.
If you notice a diagonal earlobe crease, especially with other risk factors, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor and undergo proper cardiovascular screening, but don’t panic.
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“Instead, pay attention to your health by eating a well-balanced diet and managing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and stress. Remember, early detection can make a big difference and save your life,” said Dr Pal.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
महिला सांसदों पर अशोभनीय टिप्पणी का विरोध: महोबा में गुलाबी गैंग का प्रदर्शन, राष्ट्रपति को भेजा ज्ञापन – Mahoba News