Heart Failure , signs and symptoms.
Tuesday, May 2, 2023
Heart Failure is a serious long-term condition that usually continues to get worse over time.
Many people are living with this life-threatening condition and don't even know they have it until it’s severe state.
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Heart failure is brought on by a variety of underlying diseases and health problems.
This may include:
•Coronary artery disease.
This occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the heart muscle.
•High blood pressure.
Over time, high blood pressure can cause the heart to work harder to pump blood, leading to heart muscle damage.
•Heart attacks.
A heart attack occurs when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the heart, damaging the heart muscle.
•Cardiomyopathy.
This is a general term for conditions that cause the heart muscle to become weak or damaged.
•Valvular heart disease.
This refers to problems with the heart valves, which can cause the heart to work harder and eventually lead to heart failure.
•Other conditions like diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
The symptoms of heart failure can vary from person to person, and the severity of the symptoms may also vary.
Some common symptoms of heart failure may include:
1. Shortness of breath:
This can occur when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's oxygen needs.
This can cause a person to feel out of breath, even when they are not physically active.Shortness of breath can be especially noticeable when a person is lying down and may be relieved by sitting up or leaning forward.
2. Fatigue:
Heart failure can cause a person to feel tired and weak because the heart is not able to pump blood efficiently.
This can lead to a lack of energy and the inability to perform daily activities.
3. Swelling:
Heart failure can cause fluid to build up in the ankles, feet, and legs, leading to swelling.
This is known as peripheral oedema.
Swelling may be more noticeable after standing or sitting for a long time and may improve when the affected limb is elevated.
4. Rapid or irregular heartbeat:
Heart failure can cause the heart to beat faster or irregularly, which can be noticed by the person or their healthcare provider.
This may feel like a fluttering sensation in the chest or a racing heartbeat.
5. Chest pain:
Heart failure can cause chest pain in some people.
This may feel like a tightness or pressure in the chest and may be worse with physical activity.
6. Swelling in the abdomen:
In addition to swelling in the ankles and legs, heart failure can also cause fluid to build up in the abdomen, leading to swelling in this area.
This is known as ascites and may cause the abdomen to feel swollen or tender to the touch.
7. Dizziness or fainting:
Dizziness or fainting can occur when the heart is not able to pump enough blood to the brain.
This can cause a person to feel lightheaded or unsteady on their feet.
Fainting, or losing consciousness, can also occur in some cases.
You can also experience other symptoms like weight gain due to fluid retention, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and persistent cough.
Complications of heart failure depend on the severity of heart disease and your overall health.
Possible complications can include:
•Liver damage.
•Kidney damage.
•Erectile dysfunction.
•Stroke.
•Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythm).
All these complications that come along with heart failure are life-threatening and need medical attention as soon as possible.
It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Don’t ignore these signs!!!