8 Signs of Heart Failure You Should Not Ignore

Heart failure occurs when the muscle in the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. It can be caused by various health conditions. For example, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, or anything that can cause the heart to be too weak or stiff to pump blood adequately. It often develops after other conditions have damaged or weakened the heart. But, it can also occur if the heart becomes too stiff. In the events of heart disorders, it is important to rush immediately to one of the best heart hospitals in Hyderabad

In the case of heart failure, the main pumping chambers of the heart may become stiff and not filled properly between beats. The heart muscle may become damaged and weakened in some patients. The ventricles may stretch up to the point where the heart is unable to pump enough blood through the body. Over a period of time, the heart can no longer keep up with the typical demands placed on it to pump blood to the rest of the body.

The medical professional can determine how well your heart is pumping by measuring how much blood is pumped out by ejection fraction which is used to help classify heart failure and guide treatment. In a healthy heart, the ejection fraction is 50% or higher. This states that more than half of the blood that fills the ventricle is pumped out with each beat. However, a heart failure can occur even with a normal ejection fraction if the heart muscle becomes stiff from conditions such as high blood pressure. 

Here is a List of Different 8 Signs of Heart Failure

Heart failure requires immediate medical attention. And, it can be a symptom of another cardiovascular issue. Thus, it is important to recognize the signs of heart failure as quickly as possible. Here mentioned are some of the most common symptoms of heart failure, such as:- 

1. Extreme fatigue and weakness

A feeling of overwhelming tiredness to the point where daily life is affected by it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition or heart failure. According to the doctors, unexplained weakness, fatigue and especially fainting are all signs to be concerned about.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath can be a sign of heart failure. If it happens suddenly during simple activities or while lying down, it can greatly reduce one’s ability to exercise and move around comfortably.  

3. Leg, ankle, or feet swelling

An unexplained swelling in any part of the feet or legs could be a sign that blood flow is not circulating properly due to the weakened heart muscles or a lack of blood flow.

4. Heart and chest pain

Irregular heartbeat that is not connected to any form of exercise could be a symptom of heart failure. When it is combined with the shortness of breath or sharp chest pain, you should seek medical treatment immediately.  

5. Severe coughing or wheezing

One of the most common signs of heart failure is constant coughing or wheezing. Thereby, resulting in pink or white phlegm with the traces of blood. It often comes with sudden shortness of breath and should be seen immediately by a doctor. 

6. Urges to urinate at night

You may experience frequent urges to urinate at night. This could be linked to a cardiovascular condition or CHF.  

7. Nausea or loss of appetite

Lack of appetite, vomiting sensations and nausea could also be signs of heart failure. However, these could also be the ill-effects of a heart medication.

8.  Difficulty in Focusing 

A lack of proper blood flow can have an effect on people’s cognitive abilities. It can make it difficult to concentrate on simple tasks throughout the day. 

Treatment

The procedure for the treatment for heart failure is often focused on correcting the underlying condition. In scenarios when reversing the medical condition is not possible, some treatments can help relieve symptom. Thus, allowing the patients to live longer and healthier lives. There are a few lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, diet changes, exercise, and reducing stress which can be particularly helpful to avoid heart failure. 

As per the cardiologists, heart failure can be corrected by treating the underlying cause. For example, repairing a heart valve or controlling a fast heart rhythm may reverse heart failure. However, in some cases, the treatment of heart failure involves the consumption of right medications. 

Medications

The cardiologists usually treat heart failure with a combination of medications. For example,

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors – It helps to relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure. Additionally, it helps to improve blood flow and decreases the strain on the heart.  Some of the examples include enalapril and captopril.

Angiotensin II receptor blockers – Some of the examples of this drug include include losartan, valsartan and candesartan. These drugs have the same benefits as ACE inhibitors and can be an option for people who are unable to tolerate ACE inhibitors.

Diuretics – This makes you urinate more frequently and at the same time keep fluid from collecting in your body. Diuretics also decreases fluid in your lungs so you can breathe more easily.

A healthy heart is important for a healthy life. For any treatment related to heart, you must visit some of the top hospitals in Hyderabad