What happens in the end stage of heart failure?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can explain the end stage of heart failure. In the final stages of congestive heart failure, the heart is no longer able to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can lead to a number of severe symptoms that significantly impact the patient's quality of life. The symptoms of end-stage congestive heart failure include: 1. Dyspnea: Shortness of breath that can worsen with activity and even occur at rest. 2. Chronic cough or wheezing: This can be due to fluid backing up into the lungs. 3. Edema: Swelling, particularly in the legs and ankles, due to fluid retention. 4. Nausea or lack of appetite: The body may retain fluids, leading to a feeling of fullness and nausea. 5. A high heart rate: The heart may beat faster in an attempt to pump more blood. 6. Confusion or impaired thinking: This can be a result of decreased blood flow to the brain. These symptoms are indicative of the body's struggle to compensate for the failing heart, and they often require intensive medical intervention, including hospitalization, medication adjustments, and possibly advanced treatments such as heart transplantation or mechanical assist devices.

In time, patients will reach the final stages of congestive heart failure. ... The symptoms of end-stage congestive heart failure include dyspnea, chronic cough or wheezing, edema, nausea or lack of appetite, a high heart rate, and confusion or impaired thinking.