It’s sometimes hard to know whether symptoms like a cough, fatigue or weight gain are a sign of a serious disease.
We all get worn out, right? Maybe we’re just out of shape or have a cold.
Heart failure, for example, can have symptoms that, taken alone may not seem like a big deal, but together create a reason for higher concern.
“When someone has heart failure, their heart isn’t able to pump enough blood to meet their body’s needs,” said Devin Mehta, MD, an advanced heart failure cardiologist and Director of the Heart Failure Program at Endeavor Health.
“This results in the heart becoming enlarged as it tries to compensate, as well as changes in blood vessels and kidney function as the body tries to maintain blood pressure.”
Eventually, the body is not able to keep up and people begin to experience symptoms. Some of the signs that something serious is happening could be missed.
Common symptoms of heart failure include:
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Coughing or wheezing that persists
- Fluid retention that causes swelling in hands, feet, ankles, legs and abdomen (edema)
- Fatigue
- Lower appetite, nausea
- Weight changes
- Heart palpitations
- Confusion or memory loss
Weight gain or loss alone might not sound any alarms. But sudden weight gain or loss accompanied by fatigue, swollen ankles and a wheezing cough should raise some flags.
“Heart failure sounds like a scary diagnosis, but it is treatable. Treatment can include lifestyle changes, medication and other measures,” said Dr. Mehta. “Many people learn how to manage the symptoms and continue to enjoy life with heart failure.”
Tell your primary care doctor if you experience symptoms of heart failure.
Related Articles
