Congestive heart failure: Chronic cough could be a sign of heart failure?

Symptoms of congestive heart failure: Coughing that may produce white or pink blood-tinged phlegm is referred to as persistent wheeze or coughing. (Image: Canva)

Heart failure and chest congestion are rarely thought to be connected as most individuals believe that coughing is a lung problem. But few people are aware that congestive heart failure (CHF), the official term for heart failure, can also be indicated by a persistent cough or congestion. Heart failure patients can have a chronic cough that occasionally contains blood. This generally happens when heart failure advances to a more severe state. It is important to be aware of whether their persistent cough is a sign of heart failure and, if so, what actions they should take to maintain a safe and healthy life.

What is congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure is a medical condition that occurs when heart muscles are unable to pump blood properly, says Dr Amit Malik, director and coordinator, interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, Max hospital, Vaishali. Dr Malik says that this is a persistent and progressive cardiac problem that is typically brought on by illnesses including hypertension, heart valve disease, and coronary artery disease, among others.

Connection between cough and heart failure

According to Dr Malik, one of the potential problems that could arise from inadequate cardiac muscle function is lung congestion. This occurs when blood from the lungs tends to back up and return to the heart, creating an opportunity for fluid to seep into the lungs' alveoli. A cough then follows this congestion.

Causes of congestive heart failure

Various disorders that impair the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently can lead to congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure is mostly caused by two types of conditions: those that directly harm the heart muscle and those that put more pressure on the heart by raising its workload. Coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (Heart attack), hypertension, cardiomyopathy, heart valve problems, infections, congenital heart defects are few types of congestive heart failure.

Signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure

1. Dr Malik says that cough associated with heart failure may be accompanied by significant wheezing and breathing difficulties. In severe stages, patients spit up frothy sputum and blood.

2. Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is the inability to breathe, particularly when lying down or engaging in physical exercise.

3. Coughing that may produce white or pink blood-tinged phlegm is referred to as persistent wheeze or coughing.

4. Edoema, or fluid retention and swelling, is the result of swelling caused by fluid retention in the legs, ankles, abdomen, or other dependant areas; it is usually accompanied by weight increase

5. Weakness and fatigue are frequently brought on by the heart's diminished capacity to pump blood.

6 Palpitations or a fluttering sensation in the chest may be symptoms of an arrhythmic heartbeat, which is characterised by a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

7. There is incapacity to endure physical strain or activity to the same extent as previously.

8. An elevated heart rate, particularly during rest.

9. Reduced brain blood flow may be the cause of cognitive impairment or disorientation.

10. A decrease in the desire to eat or a queasy feeling

Treatment for congestive heart failure

Dietary adjustments: It's usually advised to follow a low-sodium, heart-healthy diet to lessen fluid retention. This can entail controlling fluid intake and consuming less salt.

Frequent exercise: Encouraging physical activity under supervision can enhance general health and cardiovascular health. The kind and level of exercise a person does depends on their health.

Individuals with congestive heart failure must work closely with their doctors to develop and adjust a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. Early diagnosis and consistent management can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for those living with heart failure.