How do I recognize congestive heart failure symptoms?

Congestive heart failure is a relatively common condition in which the heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the needs of the body. It is often a result of a long-term condition or of ageing. The body tries to compensate by increasing fluid retention and salt in the blood.

This can lead to swelling, weight gain, and shortness of breath. Congestive heart failure is also associated with diabetes and high blood pressure. The most common cause of congestive heart failure, however, is coronary artery disease (CAD). This is when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrow and blocked.

In this article, the leading cardiologist in Delhi sheds light on important heart failure symptoms.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure symptoms can be hard to recognize. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and take notice if they are worsening, says Dr. Vanita.

The following are some of the most common symptoms of congestive heart failure:

• Shortness of breath
• Weakness or fatigue
• Lack of appetite and nausea
• Persistent cough, sometimes with blood-tinged mucous
• Reduced alertness and ability to concentrate
• Chest pain
• Swelling in the feet and legs
• Swelling of the abdomen
• Sudden weight gain
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• A hard or bloated stomach

When to Contact a Doctor?

If you can check most of the heart failure symptoms from the list above, contact a doctor immediately. Certain symptoms like chest pain, severe shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, severe weakness or fainting necessitate immediate medical attention. If you experience any of that, don’t wait to seek help, don’t self-diagnose, and don’t self-medicate.

Some of these symptoms can also be indicative of other life-threatening lung or heart conditions, if not heart failure. Emergency doctors work to determine what’s causing your symptoms and stabilise your condition.

Also, if you have already been diagnosed with heart failure, and you notice that your symptoms have worsened or a new symptom has developed, call your doctor immediately.

Who is at Risk of Congestive Heart Failure?

Congestive heart failure is a very serious condition that can lead to death. There are many risk factors for developing congestive heart failure. They include smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and a history of a heart attack.

It can also be caused due to a genetic disorder such as cardiomyopathy. In this condition, the heart muscle can become enlarged and abnormally thick, which can lead to heart failure, the best cardiologist in Delhi explains.

Lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol or tobacco consumption as well as smoking can contribute to congestive heart failure.

Book an Appointment

A recipient of prestigious awards such as the Chikitsa Ratan and Woman Doctor Entrepreneur of the Year 2018, Dr. Vanita is a renowned cardiologist in Delhi. Dr. Vanita is also known for performing the live case of a leadless pacemaker at the 2016 TCT India Conference.

If you’re experiencing any of the abovementioned heart failure symptoms, book an appointment and consult Dr. Vanita immediately. To do so, call +91 9873879994. For any queries related to heart health, you may drop an email at doctorvanitaarora@gmail.com or fill this form.