Heart failure is a serious health problem. It means the heart is not able to pump blood as well as it should.
This does not mean the heart has stopped working completely, but it does mean it is struggling to send enough blood and oxygen to the body. Knowing the early warning signs can help people get treatment sooner. This can make a big difference and may even save lives.
Heart failure can affect one or both sides of the heart. The symptoms may be different depending on which side is involved. But the earlier the signs are noticed, the better the chances of managing the condition.
One of the first and most common signs is shortness of breath. This can happen even when a person is resting. Some people feel out of breath while lying down. This happens because fluid can build up in the lungs, making it harder to breathe. If someone has trouble breathing for no clear reason, they should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Another sign is swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or stomach. This swelling, also called edema, is caused by fluid leaking from blood vessels into the tissues. The heart is too weak to pump blood properly, so fluid builds up. Swelling that comes on quickly or doesn’t go away is a reason to seek medical help.
Sudden weight gain can also be a warning sign. If someone gains several pounds in a short time without eating more, it might be because of fluid buildup. People with heart failure often gain weight quickly because of this. It’s important to keep track of weight and tell a doctor about any big changes.
Feeling tired or weak is another common symptom. The heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, so the muscles don’t get enough energy. This can leave someone feeling exhausted all the time, even after resting.
Some people may have a cough that does not go away or feel a wheezing in their chest. This may include coughing up pink or white mucus. Just like with shortness of breath, this is caused by fluid in the lungs. These symptoms may get worse when lying down.
A fast or pounding heartbeat can also be a sign. This happens because the heart is working harder to pump blood. Some people may feel like their heart is racing or skipping beats. This is the heart trying to keep up.
Other symptoms include feeling sick to the stomach or not feeling hungry. This can happen because fluid builds up around the stomach and liver, which makes digestion harder. These signs may not seem related to the heart at first, but they are important to notice.
In more serious cases, a person may feel confused or have memory problems. This is because the brain is not getting enough blood. It might be hard to think clearly or remember things.
Heart failure is a long-term condition that gets worse over time if not treated. But when people notice the signs early and get help, they have a better chance of living longer and feeling better. Doctors can offer treatments and advice to help manage the disease.
Anyone at risk for heart failure should have regular check-ups and talk to their doctor about any changes in how they feel. Watching for symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, tiredness, or sudden weight gain can help catch heart failure early. Taking action quickly can make a big difference.
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