When you find yourself breathless after mild exertion or even while lying down, or when fatigue lingers despite adequate rest, your body might be signaling an underlying problem. Swollen ankles, an erratic heartbeat, unexplained weight fluctuations, and persistent coughing could also be signs that your heart is not functioning as efficiently as it should.
Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart muscle becomes too weak or too stiff to pump blood effectively. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), this condition is a leading cause of hospitalisation in older adults. While it doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working entirely, it does indicate that it is struggling to meet the body’s demands. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and coronary artery disease increase the likelihood of developing heart failure.
Heart failure is a serious condition, but it doesn’t happen overnight. It develops gradually, often creeping in with subtle warning signs that are easy to dismiss, says Dr Krishnanu Dutta Choudhury, Senior Consultant Cardiac Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida. "Heart failure is a progressive disease, but with timely intervention, you can manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and even slow down its progression. Recognising the early signs is key to preventing severe complications," he explains.
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Dr Choudhury suggests one should watch out for the following warning signs of a heart failure:
Shortness of breath or dyspnoea: One of the most common and concerning symptoms of heart failure is breathlessness, which worsens during physical activity or while lying flat. This occurs because fluid builds up in the lungs due to the heart's inability to pump efficiently.
Unexplained weakness and fatigue: A persistent lack of energy, even after adequate rest, could indicate that the heart is struggling to circulate enough oxygen-rich blood to the muscles and tissues. Everyday activities, such as climbing stairs or carrying groceries, may start feeling unusually exhausting.
Swelling in the lower limbs, peripheral edema: Fluid retention, particularly in the feet, ankles, and legs, is a telltale sign of heart failure. The heart’s reduced pumping ability causes blood to back up in the veins, leading to swelling.
Irregular or rapid heartbeat or palpitations: A fluttering or racing heartbeat can occur as the heart tries to compensate for its reduced pumping power. If palpitations become frequent or are accompanied by dizziness, medical evaluation is crucial.
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Persistent cough or wheezing: A chronic cough that worsens at night or in a reclining position could indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs, a hallmark of congestive heart failure. This may be accompanied by frothy or pink-tinged mucus.
Confusion or cognitive impairment: Reduced blood flow to the brain can cause mental fog, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and even mood changes such as anxiety or depression. These symptoms are often overlooked but can be an early indicator of heart failure.
Unexplained weight changes: Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention or unexpected weight loss due to reduced appetite and nausea could signal heart failure. A rapid increase in weight—more than 2–3 kg in a few days—should be taken seriously.
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening heart failure, frequent hospitalisations, and a decline in your health, says Dr Choudhury. “If you or someone you know is experiencing these warning signs, seeking medical advice immediately is crucial. Heart failure can often be managed with a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. The earlier we diagnose and treat it, the better the outcomes,” he adds.
Dr Choudhury suggests that diagnostic tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, blood tests, and chest X-rays help confirm heart failure and guide treatment strategies. “While heart failure is a chronic condition, proactive management can significantly improve quality of life and longevity.”
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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