Symptoms Of Heart Failure in Women

Sometimes, the heart muscle fails to pump blood as well as it must. Consequently, the blood backs up. It may lead to a fluid build-up in the lungs. It then results in shortness of breath. In some people, latent heart conditions weaken the heart. It then does not pump the blood properly. Some such conditions are high blood pressure and narrowed heart arteries. Fortunately, with proper treatment, heart failure symptoms may improve. It can enable people to live longer.

Beyond this, you can improve symptoms by

1. Making lifestyle changes
2. Using less salt
3. Managing stress
4. Losing weight

But this condition is life-threatening. People with heart failure usually show severe symptoms. Some might require a device or a transplant to improve blood flow. But what are the symptoms? Continue reading to find out.

Symptom 1: Wheezing or Persistent Coughing

Coughing can be a heart failure symptom. It may be so when the cough has pink blood-tinged or white mucus.

Why does it happen?

Fluid build-up in the lungs can cause coughing.

Related : Understanding Congestive Heart Failure Symptoms

Symptom 2: Dyspnea

Shortness of Breath might occur

1. During activity (most common)
2. At rest

At times, dyspnea may arise suddenly at night. Consequently, breathing may become difficult. To normalize, you may have to get up and move around. Keep several pillows to raise the upper body. It can also make breathing easier.

Why does it happen?

Congestive heart failure doctors in Hyderabad say that it occurs when the blood backs up in the pulmonary veins. The situation arises when the heart fails to keep up with the supply. This incapacity causes the fluid to leak into the lungs.

Symptom 3: Edema

It is called edema and results in swelling in

1. Abdomen
2. Fingers
3. Ankles
4. Feet
5. Legs

Heart failure specialists in Hyderabad say that excessive swelling can result in weight gain.

Why does it happen?

• In heart failure, the heart does not pump blood with complete force.
• It results in insufficient blood pumping out of the heart with every heartbeat.
• It also means that the heart does not empty as it should.
• Blood returning from the body does not go back to the heart.
• It accumulates in the veins.
• Consequently, fluids from the blood vessel travel to the tissues, causing edema or swelling.

Symptom 4: Nausea

Heart failure affects appetite. You may feel sick to the stomach, and you may feel full without properly eating.

Why does it happen?

It occurs because the digestive system does not receive adequate blood. Consequently, you may encounter digestive issues.

Symptom 5: Weight Changes

Sudden weight loss or gain is also a sign of heart failure. It may also point towards a worsening or progressing heart failure. Seek assistance from reputed heart failure specialists in Hyderabad. Ask them how much fluid intake you must have daily.

Why does it happen?

• Reduced blood flow makes it challenging for the body to absorb nutrients from the food. It can trigger weight loss.
• On the contrary, excessive fluid retention may result in weight gain.

Symptom 6: Fatigue

Heart failure may result in

• A tired feeling all the time
• Difficulty doing daily routine tasks.

Why does it happen?

• In heart failure, the heart fails to pump blood to cater to the needs of body tissues.
• The body diverts blood from less crucial organs, such as limb muscles.
• It happens because the body reserves this blood for the brain and heart.
• Insufficient blood in the limbs can cause tiredness and fatigue.

Symptom 7: Impaired Thinking or Confusion

1. Heart failure can cause
2. Feeling of Disorientation

Memory loss

Usually, the caregiver will notice these symptoms.

Why does it happen?

Heart failure causes

1. A change in the level of some substances in the blood.
2. It can cause a drop in blood flow in the brain.
3. Reduced blood flow can cause impaired thinking.

Symptom 8: Increased Heart Rate

Heart failure may induce heart palpitations.

You may feel it as

1. Racing beats
2. Throbbing in the chest

Why does it happen?

The heart beats faster to compensate for a decline in the pumping capacity.

Bottom Line

Heart failure is a life-threatening condition. It demands careful monitoring and management. Recognizing the symptoms early can boost the quality of life. It can also change the outcomes for those affected. So, if you notice any of the above-listed symptoms, please see a cardiologist. Those seeking congestive heart failure doctors in Hyderabad should consult Dr. Raghu. He is a reputed cardiologist in Hyderabad. He can provide expert care and guidance for managing heart failure effectively.