How to Spot Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

Symptoms of congestive heart failure can range from the seemingly harmless to the immediately alarming. Recognizing the most harmless of symptoms can be the key to early diagnosis and treatment of congestive heart failure.

Congestive heart failure is the backing up of blood flow into the liver and other abdominal organs, abdominal cavities, and often eventually the lungs.

Early diagnosis and treatment has a significant affect on the lengthening of life.

Instructions

• 1

  PAY ATTENTION TO SWELLING.

  Since congestive heart failure is precipitated by a pooling of blood caused by an inability to pump blood, often swelling occurs in the ankles or legs. Don't write this off as simply caused by being on your feet a lot, or old age.

• 2

  NOTE SHORTNESS OF BREATH, WHEEZING.

  An inability to pump blood efficiently causes a lack of oxygen to vital organs and other parts of the body. Even though your lungs may be working fine, your heart has to be able to pump the oxygen they bring into the blood.

• 3

  REPORT ANY DIZZINESS, CONFUSION, LETHARGY.

  A lack of oxygen caused by congestive heart failure can lead to dizziness, confusion or a general sense of a need to move slowly. These symptoms could also point to the precursor to a stroke or other serious conditions.

• 4

  SEEK HELP IMMEDIATELY IF ANY PINKISH FOAM IS FOUND IN THE MOUTH.

  This can often happen especially after sleeping. This is a sign of collecting blood and needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Call your doctor or 911 if after office hours to find the next steps for you.

  See tips and warnings below.