What are the early signs of congestive heart failure?

As a healthcare professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with information on the early signs of congestive heart failure (CHF). It's important to note that recognizing these signs early can be crucial for timely treatment and better management of the condition. **Early signs of congestive heart failure may include:** 1. Shortness of breath (dyspnea) when you exert yourself or when you lie down. This can be a sign that the heart is struggling to pump blood effectively, leading to reduced oxygen supply to the body. 2. Fatigue and weakness. CHF can cause a general feeling of tiredness and lack of energy due to the heart's reduced efficiency in circulating blood and oxygen. 3. Swelling (edema) in your legs, ankles, and feet. This occurs when the heart can't pump blood forward to the lungs efficiently, causing fluid to back up and accumulate in the lower extremities. 4. Rapid or irregular heartbeat. An abnormal heart rhythm or rate can be a sign that the heart is not working properly. 5. Reduced ability to exercise. As the heart's function declines, so does the ability to perform physical activities that were once manageable. 6. Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink blood-tinged phlegm. This can be a result of fluid building up in the lungs due to the heart's inability to pump effectively. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CHF.

Heart failure signs and symptoms may include:Shortness of breath (dyspnea) when you exert yourself or when you lie down.Fatigue and weakness.Swelling (edema) in your legs, ankles and feet.Rapid or irregular heartbeat.Reduced ability to exercise.Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink blood-tinged phlegm.More items...