Heart failure refers to any condition in which your heart fails to function properly, in particular by not pumping blood around the body like it should. Knowing the signs and symptoms of heart failure can help to save your life, or the life of someone you love. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to speak to a doctor.
One of the most common symptoms of heart failure is shortness of breath. This can happen at any given time and not just when participating in physical activities. If you notice a change in your breathing or you are starting to feel breathless more frequently, it is best to seek advice from your doctor as soon as possible.
Frequent coughing is another sign of heart failure. If you find yourself coughing more frequently, it is best to seek help as soon as possible. You may also experience wheezing when breathing. If your coughing is beginning to impact your day to day life, it is best to act sooner rather than later.
Another symptom of heart failure is swelling, especially in the feet and ankles. When the heart is failing, the blood in your body is pumped much slower. Because of this, any blood returning to the heart cannot get to it and instead, must go somewhere else. This is what results in swelling. You may also notice weight gain in your abdomen area as a result of the swelling.
If you are beginning to feel overly tired or noticing fatigue, this could be another sign of heart disease. You may feel exhausted regardless of how many hours of sleep you have had. You may also find that normal day to day tasks wear you out and leave you feeling tired. Because of this, your body or limbs may feel weak even when in a relaxed state.
Another sign that you should be looking out for when it comes to heart failure is a change in, or loss of, appetite. If you find yourself feeling less hungry than you normally are, this could be a sign of heart failure. There are various other symptoms linked with your appetite, such as bouts of nausea, which can prevent you from eating. The reason your appetite is changing could be due to a lack of blood flow.
If you are feeling concerned, it is best to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Once at your appointment, you will likely be given various medical examinations in order to receive a clear diagnosis. There are various tests that you can purchase such as a cardiac check up package which will give you more clarity on how your heart is performing and what steps can be taken to reduce your risk of heart failure.
If you feel you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed, it is strongly recommended that you seek help as soon as possible. Knowing what to look out for when it comes to the signs and symptoms of heart failure can make all the difference and may end up saving your life.
