Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle does not pump blood as well as it should. Heart failure symptoms can sometimes be subtle or easily dismissed, but common signs include shortness of breath especially during activity or when lying down, fatigue and swelling in the legs & ankles. The progression of heart failure can be gradual, with symptoms worsening over time. It’s crucial to consult a doctor if you experience any combination of these symptoms, especially if they are persistent or worsening. Heart failure can be a silent killer, and it’s essential to recognize the signs before it’s too late.Proper treatment may improve the symptoms of heart failure and may help some people live longer. Lifestyle changes can improve quality of the life. Try to lose weight, exercise, use less salt and manage stress. If you have heart failure, your heart can’t supply enough blood to meet your body’s needs.Symptoms may develop slowly. Sometimes, heart failure symptoms start suddenly. Heart failure symptoms may include Here are some common symptoms to look out for:Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath with activity or when lying down: It is a key symptom particularly if it occurs during exertion or when lying down and also wake you up at night.
- Fatigue and weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak even with minimal activity can be a sign of heart failure.
- Swelling in the legs, ankles and feet and sometimes in abdomen also
- A persistent cough, particularly one that produces white or pink mucus, can indicate fluid build-up in the lungs.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat: Palpitations where you feel your heart racing, pounding can be a sign of heart failure
- Reduced in the ability to exercise.
- Wheezing: shortness of breath. wheezing can be a sign of fluid accumulation in the lungs.
- Loss of appetite or nausea: These symptoms can be vague but should be considered in conjunction with other potential heart failure signs, feeling queasy or losing your appetite can be related to heart failure.
- Weight gain: Sudden weight gain, especially if accompanied by swelling, could be related to fluid retention.
- Night-time urination: Increased need to urinate at night can be an indirect sign of heart failure.
- Chest pain if heart failure is caused by a heart attack. If you experience chest pain, especially during physical activity, it could be a sign of heart failure.
- Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness: Heart failure can cause decreased alertness or difficulty concentrating.
Risk factors:
Some people are more prone to heart failure due to factors like
- Age: Being over 65 increases your risk.
- High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to heart failure.
- Diabetes: Having diabetes increases your risk of heart failure.
- Smoking and tobacco use: These habits can damage your heart and increase your risk.
- Obesity: Being significantly overweight can strain your heart.
- Family history: If your family members have heart failure, you’re more likely to develop it.
When to seek medical help
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can diagnose heart failure through physical exams, medical history, and tests, Remember, early detection and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life.See your healthcare professional if you think you might have symptoms of heart failureCall for emergency medical help if you have any of the following:Chest pain.Fainting or severe weakness.Rapid or irregular heartbeat with shortness of breath, chest pain or fainting.Sudden, severe shortness of breath and coughing up white or pink, foamy mucus.These symptoms may be due to heart failure. But there are many other possible causes. Don’t try to diagnose yourself.Dr. Roopa R, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist, Apollo Hospital Seshadripuram, Bengaluru
