Congestive heart failure is when the heart your heart can’t pump sufficient blood to give your body a properoxygen-rich blood supply. Having congestive heart failure doesn’t mean your heart stops working.
But, if this cardiovascular condition remains untreated, it will cause blood and fluid build-up in the legs and lungs, leading to swelling and shortness of breath. Consult your Siliguri heart specialist doctor to treat and manage this disease effectively.
Three major types of congestive heart failure include:
- Left-sided heart failure.
- Right-sided heart failure.
- High-output heart failure.
The left-sided heart failure is the most common form of congestive heart failure, which is often a result of coronary artery disease, heart attack, long-term high blood pressure, valvular heart disease, arrhythmia, etc.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure
The symptoms of congestive heart failure can vary depending on the severity of the condition, and sometimes symptoms are constant or come and go. Understanding the symptoms can help you take steps, such as seeing a doctor without delay.
Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
One of the most noticeable signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure is difficulty breathing. Shortness of breath can occur when you engage in physical activity or even when you’reresting.
Some people may also experience dyspnea or shortness of breath while lying down. This happens because fluid accumulates in the lungs, making it harder for oxygen to pass into your bloodstream.It may make breathing harder when lying down because gravity lets fluid from below the lungs spread to the torso.
Irregular Heartbeat (Palpitations)
When the heart struggles to pump efficiently, it may lead to irregular beatingin which you may feel pounding, fluttering, or racing in your chest. Plus, you feel lightheadedness or dizziness along with palpitations.
Chest Pain
Chest pain may occur due to severe congestive heart failure, which may cause a feeling of pressure, tightness, or pain in the chest, especially when you’re exhausted or exercising. Seeing the top siliguri heart specialist doctor can be of great help.
Fatigue and Weakness
Since the heart is pumping inadequate oxygen-rich blood, your body gets less oxygen and nutrients, leading to a general feeling of tiredness and muscle weakness that comes and goes or is persistent.
If you notice unusual tiredness or weakness after routine activities or throughout the day, consult your doctor and find the reason. Also, you may notice that you need frequent rest breaks or naps.
Swelling (Edema)
Fluid buildup, medically termededema, is another common symptom of congestive heart failure. You’ll often notice this in the legs, and ankles,but swelling can also occur in the belly.
If you notice swelling worsens as the day progresses, unexplained weight gain due to fluid retention, abdominal bloating, etc., inform your healthcare provider.
Ongoing Cough or Wheezing
A persistent, dry cough or wheezing may occur when fluid builds up in the lungs (pulmonary congestion). You might consult one of the top cardiologists in Siliguri for congestive heart failure.
Seek Emergency Help for Your Loved One With:
- Sudden or severe shortness of breath
- Rapid heartbeat
- Chest pain or pressure
- Chest tightness with palpitations
- Feeling extreme dizziness
- Unconsciousness
Early diagnosis and accurate treatment can prevent further complications and treat the disease optimally. If you suspect you’re at risk of congestive heart failure or your primary doctor recommends a heart specialist, consider seeing a heart specialist.