Heart failure is a condition in which the heart becomes unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It can lead to a range of symptoms that can vary from person to person.

Some common symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs and ankles, coughing, and an irregular heartbeat.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is a common symptom of heart failure. It can occur during physical activity or when lying flat and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.

In the early stages of heart failure, shortness of breath may only occur during physical exertion. As the condition worsens, it can occur even at rest.

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Fatigue

Fatigue is another common symptom of heart failure. It can be caused by the reduced ability of the heart to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. This can leave a person feeling tired and weak, even with small exertion.

Fatigue in heart failure can also be caused by the reduced amount of oxygen that reaches the muscles due to the decrease in blood flow.

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Swelling in the Legs and Ankles

Swelling in the legs and ankles is a common symptom of heart failure. It is caused by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues due to the reduced ability of the heart to pump blood efficiently.

This swelling can be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness and discomfort in the affected area. It is important to note that swelling in one leg or ankle is not always a sign of heart failure, but it is important to get it checked out by a doctor.

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Coughing

A persistent cough can be a symptom of heart failure. It is caused by the buildup of fluid in the lungs due to the reduced ability of the heart to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to a feeling of tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing.

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Irregular Heartbeat

An irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia, can be a symptom of heart failure. It can cause a feeling of palpitations or fluttering in the chest.

It is important to note that not all irregular heartbeats are a sign of heart failure, but it is important to get checked out by a doctor if you are experiencing this symptom.

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Related Article Recognizing heart failure: visual cues

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person’s breathing is interrupted while they are sleeping. It can be a symptom of heart failure and can also worsen the condition.

Sleep apnea can cause a person to wake up feeling tired and can also lead to other symptoms such as headache and difficulty concentrating.

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Chest Pain

Chest pain is a symptom that can be caused by a number of conditions, including heart failure. It can be a sign of a heart attack, and if you are experiencing chest pain, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Chest pain in heart failure can also be caused by the buildup of fluid in the lining that surrounds the heart.

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Lightheadedness

Lightheadedness is a symptom of heart failure that can be caused by a number of factors, including a drop in blood pressure.

It can make a person feel dizzy or faint, and it is important to get checked out by a doctor if you are experiencing this symptom.

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Nausea

Nausea can be a symptom of heart failure, although it is less common than other symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath.

It can occur due to the buildup of fluid in the liver and intestines, which can lead to a feeling of discomfort and queasiness.

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Confusion or Impaired Thinking

Confusion or impaired thinking can be a symptom of heart failure, particularly in older adults. It can be caused by a drop in blood flow to the brain due to the reduced ability of the heart to pump blood efficiently.

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Conclusion

Heart failure is a serious condition that requires medical attention. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to seek medical advice.

While these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well, they should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to manage the condition and improve quality of life.