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Understanding the Symptoms of
Heart Failure

Recognizing heart failure
symptoms early is important
for timely treatment and living
your best life.

Recognizing heart failure symptoms early is important for timely treatment and achieving the best possible outcomes

Explore the Most Common Symptoms of Heart Failure1

Being vigilant about heart failure symptoms is essential because early detection may improve may improve your quality of life and help prevent your heart failure from getting worse. If you suspect you or your loved one may be experiencing the symptoms of heart failure, talk to your doctor or see a heart failure specialist near you.

Download Heart Failure Information
Watch a video that guides you through the crucial signs and symptoms to watch for in managing your heart failure effectively. Be prepared and know when to reach out to your heart team.

Shortness of Breath

People who have heart failure often have trouble breathing during activities or even while resting due to fluid buildup in the lungs, a common symptom when the heart does not pump efficiently.

Shortness of Breath may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

Decreased Energy

Fatigue or feeling unusually tired can be a sign of heart failure, as the heart struggles to supply the muscles and organs with sufficient blood.

Decreased Energy may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

Swelling of Feet, Ankles, and Legs

This symptom, known as peripheral edema, occurs when the heart's reduced pump function causes blood to pool in the lower extremities, leading to noticeable swelling.

Swelling of Feet, Ankles, and Legs may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

Lightheadedness

As heart failure progresses, reduced blood flow to the brain can result in moments of dizziness or lightheadedness, signaling inadequate cardiac output.

Lightheadedness may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

Faster Heart Rate

The heart may compensate for its decreased pumping ability by beating faster, which can be both a symptom and a factor that exacerbates heart failure if left unchecked.

Faster Heart Rate may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

Frequent Cough

A persistent cough or wheezing that produces white or pink blood-tinged mucus can indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs due to heart failure.

Frequent Coughing may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

Nausea and Weight Gain

These symptoms may arise from digestive disturbances and fluid retention, respectively, as the body struggles to deal with an inadequate blood flow.

Nausea may be a Symptom of Heart Failure

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Find a Heart Failure Specialist

Heart failure specialists have additional training to fully treat people with heart failure like you. It's vital to your continued health that you find a clinic specifically dedicated to helping people with heart failure. 

Find A Specialist
Find a heart failure clinic

These materials are not intended to replace your doctor's advice or information. For any questions or concerns you may have regarding the medical procedures, devices and/or your personal health, please discuss these with your physicians.

 

References

  1. Warning signs of heart failure. American Heart Association website. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-failure/warning-signs-of-heart-failure. Accessed October 15, 2024.

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