Summary Swelling in the feet, ankles and legs can occur when the body begins retaining excess fluid.
Heart failure is a serious condition that can affect the heart’s ability to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Despite its name, heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped working.
The condition becomes more common with age and can develop after damage caused by coronary artery disease, a previous heart attack, long-term high blood pressure or certain heart valve problems.
Symptoms can vary widely. They may develop gradually or become noticeably worse over a short period. Recognizing potential warning signs can help people seek medical care before the condition becomes more serious.
Shortness of Breath
Breathlessness is one of the most common symptoms of heart failure. It may initially appear during exercise or other physical activity, but can become more frequent as the condition progresses.
Some people may eventually have difficulty breathing while resting or lying flat. This can happen when reduced heart function causes pressure to build up in the blood vessels around the lungs, allowing fluid to accumulate.
Swelling in the Legs and Feet
Swelling in the feet, ankles and legs can occur when the body begins retaining excess fluid.
When circulation is impaired, the kidneys may retain more salt and water. The resulting fluid buildup can cause noticeable swelling, particularly in the lower parts of the body.
Sudden Weight Gain
An unexplained increase in weight over a few days can sometimes be a sign of fluid retention rather than an increase in body fat.
People who have already been diagnosed with heart failure may be advised to weigh themselves regularly. A sudden change can provide an early warning that fluid is building up and that treatment may need to be adjusted.
Persistent Fatigue
Unusual or persistent tiredness can also accompany heart failure.
If the heart is unable to deliver enough blood and oxygen to the body’s tissues, everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs or shopping may become more difficult and exhausting than usual.
Coughing or Wheezing
A persistent cough or wheezing, particularly when lying down, may occur when fluid accumulates in the lungs.
Coughing up pink or blood-tinged, foamy mucus can be a sign of a serious problem and requires immediate medical attention.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat
People with heart failure may notice a faster heartbeat, pounding in the chest or a fluttering sensation.
The heart may beat faster as it attempts to maintain adequate blood flow. Abnormal heart rhythms, including atrial fibrillation, can also occur in people with heart failure.
Loss of Appetite and Digestive Symptoms
Not all heart failure symptoms appear to involve the heart or lungs.
Some people may experience reduced appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort or a feeling of fullness. These symptoms can occur when circulation to the digestive system is affected or when fluid accumulates around the abdomen.
Confusion or Difficulty Concentrating
In more advanced cases, reduced blood flow can affect the brain and contribute to confusion, difficulty concentrating or unusual drowsiness.
Sudden confusion accompanied by severe breathing problems or chest pain should be treated as a medical emergency.
When to Seek Medical Care
These symptoms can also occur with many other health conditions, so having one or more of them does not necessarily mean a person has heart failure.
However, new or worsening shortness of breath, persistent swelling, unexplained rapid weight gain or significant fatigue should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Severe difficulty breathing, fainting or chest pain requires urgent emergency medical attention.
For people already diagnosed with heart failure, monitoring symptoms, weight and swelling can help identify changes early. Treatment may include medication, lifestyle changes and, depending on the individual’s condition, implanted devices or surgery.
Early recognition and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms, reduce complications and improve quality of life.
