Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the body. The symptoms of CHF can be mild or severe and range from shortness of breath and fatigue to chest pain and irregular heartbeat. While there is no cure for CHF, there are treatments available that can help improve your quality of life. Let's take a closer look at the symptoms and treatments of CHF.
Shortness of breath is one of the most common and distressing symptoms of CHF. If you're struggling to catch your breath or feel like you can't get enough air, contact your doctor right away. There are a few different treatments for shortness of breath, including diuretics (water pills), supplemental oxygen, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Feeling tired all the time is another common symptom of CHF. If you're constantly feeling exhausted, even after a good night's sleep, make an appointment to see your doctor. They may recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercising more and eating a healthy diet.
When your heart isn't pumping properly, fluid can build up in your body and cause swelling (known as edema). This usually occurs in the legs, ankles, and feet but can also affect the abdomen, arms, and hands. The best way to treat swelling is to elevate the affected body part above the level of your heart for 30 minutes several times a day. Your doctor may also prescribe diuretics to help rid your body of excess fluid.
An irregular heartbeat (or arrhythmia) is another common symptom of CHF. If you're experiencing an irregular heartbeat, contact your doctor right away, as it could be a sign of a more serious condition. There are a number of treatments for irregular heartbeat, including medication, pacemakers, and defibrillators.
Chest pain is another symptom that warrants a call to your doctor right away. It could be a sign of angina, which is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart, or a heart attack. If you're experiencing chest pain, call 911 immediately and don't try to drive yourself to the hospital, as this could make things worse.
Many people with CHF have trouble sleeping due to shortness of breath or coughing fits at night, a condition known as paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. If you're having difficulty sleeping due to CHF symptoms, talk to your doctor about treatment options such as pillows or other devices that can help prop you up in bed so you can breathe more easily at night.
A decreased appetite is another common symptom of CHF that can lead to weight loss over time if left untreated. If you're struggling to eat due to loss of appetite or nausea, talk to your doctor about ways to increase your appetite or manage nausea so you can get the nutrients your body needs .They may recommend medications or changes to your diet, such as eating smaller meals more often throughout the day instead of three large meals.
These are seven of the most common symptoms associated with congestive heart failure. If you're experiencing any of these, it's important to contact your doctor right away so they can diagnose and treat the problem. With proper medical care, many people with CHF are able lead normal, active lives.