Congestive heart failure: 5 warning signs one's heart is failing without even knowing it

Congestive heart failure (CHF), or heart failure, is a condition where the heart can't pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs, leading to fluid and blood backing up in the body. It is a term commonly used to describe anyone with a heart issue, but does not mean that the heart has completely stopped functioning, but is only impaired. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the world, and develops gradually, before patients become aware of their condition through noticeable symptoms. Even though only a test can confirm the same, here are 5 warning signs of heart failure that one must look out for...

The first sign of heart failure often presents as breathing difficulties. The condition leads to shortness of breath that occurs after performing typical daily tasks such as stair climbing or walking. The inability to breathe properly also occurs when you rest, or when you lie flat in bed flat. Your lungs will experience fluid accumulation because of heart weakness, which restricts your breathing ability. Some people use pillow elevation during sleep to enhance their breathing comfort. Heart failure symptoms include unexpected nighttime breathing emergencies that require immediate medical assistance.

The heart's poor pumping ability leads to blood accumulation in veins, which results in tissue swelling known as edema. The body develops swelling or puffiness, because fluid escapes from veins into surrounding tissues. The swelling begins in your feet and ankles before it progresses to your legs during the course of a day. The swelling in your abdomen creates discomfort and bloating sensations. Your heart failure symptoms become apparent through tightness in your shoes, rings and unexpected weight gain that does not result from dietary changes.

Fatigue serves as a primary indicator, which signals the onset of heart failure. The insufficient blood circulation from the heart results in decreased oxygen and nutrient delivery to your muscles and organs. The lack of sufficient blood circulation through your heart, leads to chronic fatigue that persists even when you rest. Your ability to perform basic activities such as shopping, stair climbing and grocery carrying will suddenly become significantly more challenging than it used to be. Your body experiences weakness and drowsiness shortly after finishing a meal. The symptom develops over time, but people tend to dismiss it until they experience persistent fatigue.

A persistent cough that produces white or pink-tinged mucus, may indicate heart failure as its underlying cause. The buildup of fluid in lung tissue known as pulmonary congestion, creates airway irritation which results in this condition. Wheezing together with a rattling sound during breathing, occurs frequently in patients. This coughing symptom differs from typical cold-related coughs, because it worsens when you rest, and does not respond to standard treatment methods. A doctor needs to evaluate you when you experience a chronic cough that differs from your previous symptoms.

A weak heart functions by increasing its rate of contractions, to compensate for its reduced pumping ability. Your heart produces abnormal rhythms which cause it to beat rapidly, or irregularly. The heart produces abnormal rhythms that create a sensation of fluttering or pounding within your chest area. The irregular heartbeat causes dizziness and lightheadedness, which can lead to fainting episodes. This occurs when your heart fails to deliver sufficient blood to the brain and other vital organs because of its weakened state.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice