Heart failure can manifest with a variety of symptoms, which can vary in severity from person to person. The most commonly experienced symptoms of heart failure include:
Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Feeling breathless or having difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or while lying flat. Some individuals may experience shortness of breath even at rest.
Fatigue and Weakness: Feeling excessively tired or lacking energy, even after mild exertion or daily activities.
Swelling (Edema): Fluid retention can cause swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen. This occurs due to the buildup of fluid in the tissues.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Heart palpitations or the sensation of the heart racing or skipping beats can be a symptom of heart failure.
Persistent Cough or Wheezing: A chronic cough that produces white or pinkish sputum may indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs. Wheezing or coughing worsened by lying flat or during physical exertion is also common.
Weight Gain: Sudden or unexplained weight gain, often associated with fluid retention, can be a symptom of heart failure.
Reduced Exercise Tolerance: Difficulty performing regular activities or becoming easily fatigued during physical exertion, such as walking or climbing stairs.
Chest Discomfort: Some individuals with heart failure may experience chest pain or pressure, often related to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
Loss of Appetite or Nausea: Heart failure can cause a decreased appetite, feelings of fullness, or gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can be non-specific and may overlap with other medical conditions. Not everyone with heart failure will experience all of these symptoms, and some individuals may have atypical presentations. Additionally, the severity of symptoms can fluctuate over time.
If you experience any of these symptoms or have concerns about your heart health, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and management. Early detection and treatment of heart failure can help improve symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance overall quality of life.
*WARNING: Remember to always consult with your doctor before starting any nutrition or exercise program to ensure the program is right for you.
Dr. Angela M. Sterling, D.C. is a chiropractor in Blue Springs, Missouri. She has a passion for helping others that has led her down the path of Alternative Medicine into a career that allows her to provide patients with high quality health care. As a licensed Chiropractic Physician, she brings a holistic approach to medicine in order to find comfortable and effective solutions for everyone. Dr. Sterling is a Nationally Board Certified Doctor of Chiropractic and Nationally Board Certified in Physiotherapy.
You can contact Dr. Angela Sterling by phone or text at (816) 425-0888 or via email at Angela.Sterling@chiroone.net.