Congestive heart failure, also known as heart failure, is a type of heart disease that occurs when the heart doesn’t pump as efficiently as it should. It can be caused by various conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. It’s essential to watch for these changes if you or someone you know has CHF.
-Rise in Weight Gain
If you’re experiencing a sudden weight gain, your body may store more fluid. More fluid in your body can lead to a condition known as congestive heart failure. Even gaining a few pounds can be a sudden sign of you holding more fluid. To prevent this, keep track of your daily weight and regularly monitor your condition. It is best to weigh yourself after going to the bathroom and before eating.
-Feet Swelling
With congestive heart failure, your legs, feet, or abdomen are swollen; contact the doctor immediately and make them aware of your symptoms.
-Coughing or Shortness of Breath
The buildup of fluid in your lungs can make breathing hard, which is often caused by coughing or shortness of breath. Some of the common symptoms of this condition include difficulty breathing when doing simple tasks, such as getting dressed or walking from one room to the next. If these symptoms worsen or become severe, contact the doctor right away.
-Fast Heartbeat
If your heart is racing or feels like it’s getting erratic, you may have a flare-up of congestive heart failure. This is a symptom you should contact your doctor for or call 911.
-Weariness
Although some of the usual signs of congestive heart failure are normal, such as fatigue, you should call the doctor if you suddenly feel tired. Other symptoms include feeling dizzy or when standing up feeling light-headed. People with CHF can wake up in the middle of the night coughing or have shortness of breath.
If you are aware of having CHF and feel these symptoms with chest pain, dizziness, or trouble breathing, you should call 911.