Shortness of BreathShortness of breath, especially during physical activity, is a common early symptom. At first, you might notice it only when exercising or doing chores. Over time, it can occur even when resting or lying down. Some people wake up at night feeling breathless and need to sit up or get out of bed to breathe easier. This happens because fluid can build up in the lungs when the heart is not pumping effectively.Swelling in Legs, Ankles, and FeetSwelling, also called edema, often starts in the lower parts of the body like the feet, ankles, and legs. This swelling happens because the heart’s reduced pumping ability causes blood to back up in the veins, forcing fluid into surrounding tissues. Many people ignore mild swelling or attribute it to standing too long or hot weather, but persistent or worsening swelling can signal heart failure.Persistent Cough or WheezingA cough that doesn’t go away or produces white or pink mucus can be a sign of fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart failure. This symptom is often mistaken for a cold, allergies, or bronchitis, so it can be easy to ignore. If the cough is accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath, it should be checked by a doctor.Rapid or Irregular HeartbeatWhen the heart is struggling to pump blood, it may beat faster or irregularly to compensate. This can cause palpitations—a fluttering or pounding feeling in the chest. People sometimes overlook these sensations or think they are caused by stress or caffeine, but they can indicate worsening heart function.Difficulty ExercisingA reduced ability to exercise or perform normal activities is another subtle sign. You might find yourself getting tired more quickly or feeling short of breath after tasks you used to do easily. This decline in physical capacity is often blamed on aging or lack of fitness, but it can be an early symptom of heart failure.
Loss of Appetite and NauseaHeart failure can reduce blood flow to the digestive system, causing feelings of fullness, nausea, or loss of appetite. These symptoms are often ignored or attributed to stomach problems, but they can be linked to the heart’s reduced pumping ability.Confusion or Difficulty ConcentratingChanges in blood flow and chemical imbalances caused by heart failure can affect brain function. This may lead to confusion, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating. Family members or caregivers might notice these changes before the person does, but they are important signs to report to a healthcare professional.
Sudden Weight GainRapid weight gain over a few days can be caused by fluid retention, a common problem in heart failure. This may be easy to miss if you don’t regularly monitor your weight, but it is a critical sign that the heart failure may be worsening.
