Know the Signs of Heart Failure before It’s Too Late

Reviewed by Dr. Victor Marchione, MD.
Written by Mohan Garikiparithi
Published on February 17, 2020

Heart attack concept and human cardiovascular pain as an anatomy medical disease concept with a person suffering from a cardiac illness as a painful coronary event with 3D illustration style elements.When a heart attack hits most people, expect two things to happen: they get a sudden pain in their chest or back and the intense pain travels down their arm. But before such a devastating effect happens, there may be warning signs long in advance.

A heart attack may be the apex of congestive heart failure, a condition that can bring on symptoms that can be difficult to identify. Most people may simply pass them off as the result of age or being out of shape.

But these symptoms can give you a fair warning that your heart is not doing well and some lifestyle changes might be in order. The sooner you realize that and address them, the less damage you’ll do to your heart.

You’ve surely heard that adopting a heart-healthy diet like the Mediterranean or DASH diet can help you achieve a better cardiovascular outcome, or that getting more exercise can reduce the chances of a heart attack.

If you’re experiencing some of the following symptoms, a trip to the doctor and lifestyle changes should be imminent.

Here are some of the signs of congestive heart failure that may precede a heart attack:

  • You have a very difficult time catching your breath.
  • Any type of exercise/activity is a lot more difficult than it used to be. Even walking across the room can lead to a massive jump in heart rate.
  • Laying down on your back leads to shortness of breath.
  • Legs and feet swell up (due to fluid retention).
  • You gain weight inexplicably, particularly in the mid-section (also a result of fluid retention).
  • You have the need to urinate frequently (fluid removal, so you may not experience the belly swelling mentioned above).
  • Constantly feeling fatigued.
  • Nausea or a lack of appetite appear without explanation.
  • Lightheadedness/confusion
  • Hands and feet are regularly/always cold.

All of these symptoms indicate poor blood circulation and that your heart is not functioning optimally. They do not suggest that your heart has fully stopped working. However, they do suggest that your heart is not delivering, or receiving, blood to adequately supply the rest of your body.

You may have more warning of a heart attack than you realize, and how you’re feeling may not have anything to do with weight or fitness level. Recognize the signs of heart disease and do your best to prevent a major cardiovascular event.

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On any matter relating to your health or well-being, please check with an appropriate health professional. No statement herein is to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventative, or cure for any disease, disorder or abnormal physical state. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Foods and Drugs Administration or Health Canada. Dr. Marchione and the doctors on the Bel Marra Health Editorial Team are compensated by Bel Marra Health for their work in creating content, consulting along with formulating and endorsing products.

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