When most people think about heart problems, they usually imagine chest pain or shortness of breath—not a cough.
But for people with congestive heart failure (CHF), a nagging cough can actually be a key symptom.
CHF is a condition where the heart becomes too weak to pump blood properly. When the heart can’t keep up with the body’s needs, fluid starts to build up in the body. One of the main places this fluid goes is the lungs, and that’s what causes the cough.
The heart and lungs work closely together to move oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. When the heart isn’t working well, blood can back up into the lungs. This backup leads to congestion, which is why the condition is called “congestive” heart failure. That fluid in the lungs makes it hard to breathe and can lead to a persistent cough.
This cough often gets worse at night or when lying down. That’s because when you’re upright, gravity helps pull fluid down toward your legs. But when you lie flat, the fluid moves back toward your chest and lungs, making breathing harder and triggering coughing.
The cough might be dry, or it might bring up mucus. If the mucus is white or pink, it could mean there’s fluid in the lungs—a condition known as pulmonary edema.
It’s important to take this kind of cough seriously, especially for people who already have heart problems or are at risk for them. Catching CHF early and managing it well can make a big difference in a person’s quality of life.
Doctors encourage patients to mention any new or worsening coughs, especially if other symptoms are present. These may include feeling tired all the time, having trouble breathing, or swelling in the legs or belly.
Treatment for CHF often includes medicines called diuretics, which help the body get rid of extra fluid. By reducing the fluid in the lungs, these medications can help stop the cough. Doctors may also recommend cutting back on salt, managing weight, and reducing stress to help the heart work better.
While a cough might seem like a small issue, in the context of heart failure, it can be a sign that something is seriously wrong. It’s a reminder that our body systems are connected, and problems in one area can show up in another.
If you or someone you know has a cough along with other signs of heart problems, it’s important to speak to a healthcare provider. Getting help early can lead to better treatment, fewer symptoms, and a healthier life.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about This vaccine could reduce risks of heart disease, stroke in older people and How napping influences your heart health.
For more about heart health, please read studies about Scientists find a heart disease treatment safer than aspirin and The hidden link between gum disease and heart health.
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