Heart failure is a serious condition that occurs when the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It affects both men and women, but the symptoms can differ between the two genders.

In this article, we will explore the signs and symptoms of heart failure specifically in women.

1. Fatigue and Weakness

One of the most common signs of heart failure in women is fatigue and weakness. Women may feel unusually tired even after minimal physical activity or experience a general lack of energy throughout the day.

This can be attributed to the heart’s inability to pump blood efficiently, leading to insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply to the body’s tissues.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another prevalent symptom of heart failure in women. It commonly occurs during physical exertion but can also happen during rest. Women with heart failure may feel like they cannot catch their breath or struggle to breathe deeply.

This happens because fluid accumulates in the lungs as the heart fails to remove it properly, causing difficulty in breathing.

3. Swelling

Fluid retention and swelling, particularly in the legs, ankles, feet, and abdomen, are common symptoms of heart failure in women. This swelling, known as edema, occurs due to the improper circulation of blood caused by a weakened heart.

Gravity causes the fluid to pool in the lower extremities and other body parts.

4. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat

Heart palpitations, characterized by a rapid or irregular heartbeat, can be an indicator of heart failure in women. These palpitations may feel like the heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats.

It is essential to mention these symptoms to a healthcare provider, as they can signify an underlying heart condition that needs medical attention.

5. Persistent Cough

A chronic cough that does not go away even after a common cold or respiratory infection has resolved could be a sign of heart failure in women. This cough may produce white or pink-tinged phlegm and usually worsens when lying down.

It occurs due to the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, which triggers coughing as the body attempts to clear the airways.

6. Decreased Appetite

Women with heart failure may experience a notable decrease in their appetite or feelings of nausea.

The digestive system may not receive an adequate blood supply due to the heart’s reduced pumping capacity, resulting in a lack of interest in food or an early feeling of fullness.

7. Weight Gain

Unexplained weight gain can be a symptom of heart failure in women. It occurs due to fluid retention caused by the heart’s inability to eliminate excess fluid properly.

Women may notice sudden weight gain or find that their clothes or shoes feel tighter. Monitoring weight regularly is crucial, as it can help identify fluid overload episodes.

8. Fainting

Episodes of fainting or feeling lightheaded can occur in women with heart failure. Fainting, also known as syncope, happens due to insufficient blood flow to the brain.

It can be a result of irregular heart rhythms, low blood pressure, or decreased cardiac output.

9. Mental Confusion

In some cases, heart failure can cause cognitive changes in women, leading to confusion, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems.

The reduced blood flow to the brain affects neurological functions, potentially causing issues with cognitive abilities. These symptoms tend to worsen with physical exertion or when lying flat.

10. Chest Discomfort

Although chest pain is more commonly associated with a heart attack, some women with heart failure may experience chest discomfort. They may feel heaviness or pressure in the chest, tightness, or aching sensations.

It is important not to ignore these symptoms, as they could indicate an underlying heart problem.