Don’t ignore these common symptoms of heart failure
The term heart failure, sometimes called congestive heart failure (CHF), may result in fear. Having the condition doesn’t mean your heart no longer works – it means it’s not working as well as it should.
With proper medical treatment and lifestyle changes, the effects of heart failure can typically be managed. Many people continue to live full and enjoyable lives. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of worsening heart failure and know when to contact your doctor.
What is heart failure?
Heart failure, or congestive heart failure, means the heart isn’t pumping as well as it should. This is because the heart has a weakened pumping ability or because the walls of the heart have become thicker. That means that the heart can’t supply enough oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to cells throughout the body. The heart may become enlarged or pump faster to try to keep up with the body’s demand for blood.
What are the signs that you may have heart failure?
Below are some of the most common symptoms of heart failure. You may not experience these symptoms during the early stages of heart failure because your body works to compensate for the heart’s inability to pump blood. That’s why it’s a good idea to get regular check-ups. If you have any of the signs of worsening heart failure, talk to your doctor. Diagnosis and treatment is the best way to manage the condition.
- Shortness of breath – You may be short of breath during activity or even at rest. Some people find it difficult to breathe when sleeping and may need to prop their head up to breathe more easily.
- Excessive coughing – Heart failure can cause fluid build-up in the lungs. As a result, you may cough a lot or wheeze. Coughing may be accompanied by white or pink (blood-tinged) mucus.
- Swelling – You may retain fluid throughout your body (edema), especially in your feet, ankles, legs, abdomen, hands, or fingers. This causes swelling and may result in weight gain.
- Fatigue – Your heart might struggle to pump enough blood and meet the needs of all the body’s tissues. As a result, you may be tired when doing everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs. You may also feel tired after eating or may experience persistent fatigue all the time.
- Increased heart rate – Your heart may beat faster to try to make up for the loss of pumping capacity. This may cause you to have palpitations, which feels like your heart is racing or throbbing.
- Digestive issues – Since the digestive system may not receive enough blood, you may have little appetite or feel nauseous or sick to your stomach. You may also not absorb enough nutrients when eating.
- Confusion – Reduced blood flow to the brain may result in confusion, disorientation, impaired thinking, or memory loss. You may also feel lightheaded, dizzy, or even faint.
Managing symptoms of heart failure
Although there is no cure for heart failure, medications, and healthy lifestyle habits can help people live full lives with the condition. The earlier heart failure is diagnosed, the more effective treatment is, so don’t ignore symptoms if you have them.
Some individuals may require additional monitoring and symptom control. In these situations, home health care may be an appropriate solution. At Ethos Home Health Care we offer skilled nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, chronic illness management, and more. If you are unsure whether home health care is right for you or your loved one, visit our website.
End-stage heart failure
For individuals experiencing end-stage heart failure, hospice care might be an appropriate option. The goal of hospice is to provide comfort care and manage symptoms at the end of life. At Ethos Hospice we offer pain management, life-enriching services, support and comfort to individuals and their families. Take our free online assessment to learn if it might be time to consider hospice care for yourself or a loved one.
Contact Ethos Home Health Care and Hospice
For questions and information about home health care and hospice for heart failure, we invite you to contact our team. Fill out this online form or call (701) 515-0696.
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Date Last Reviewed: December 19, 2023
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD
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