Signs Of Heart Failure

Learning the signs of heart failure is a great way to protect yourself and your loved ones. Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a life threatening disorder where the cardiovascular system is weakened due to damage to the heart. This can cause the heart to struggle with pumping blood to the body efficiently.

1. Aging Symptoms. The first warning signs to watch out for are common symptoms that can seem more like the process of natural aging than actual heart failure, such as easily becoming tired or breathless when doing daily activities such as walking or exercise.
2. Shortness of Breath. In the later stages of congestive heart failure, shortness of breath can occur from even doing more restful activities like sitting or lying down.
3. Swelling. Edema, or swelling, of the ankles and legs, is caused by fluids accumulating in the tissues.
4. Weight Loss. Loss of appetite accompanied with weight loss, nausea, and vomiting are common signs of heart failure.
5. Pain. Pain, such as discomfort in the chest or arms, can also occur from the blockage of the coronary arteries. This kind of discomfort is also known as Angina. Pain in the abdomen can also occur from liver congestion.
6. Congestion. Coughing up white or sometimes even pink frothy sputum can occur due to fluid retention or congestion of the lungs.

If you or someone you love is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional medical advice before any other measures are taken. Congestive heart failure signs and symptoms are commonly shrugged off as being symptoms of less threatening disorders such as a long lasting cold, allergies, or old age. If proper treatment is not sought, permanent damage to the heart can be the result.