6 heart failure symptoms that are easy to miss
Worsening heart failure symptoms can be subtle. Keep an eye out for these early warning signs.
Some symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF), such as severe shortness of breath or swelling in the legs, are impossible to miss. But others can sneak up on you. Catching them early can help you avoid complications.
- A little weight gain Even a 2- to 3-pound increase in a short period may signal fluid buildup.
- Increased fatigue If daily tasks like climbing stairs or doing chores leave you more drained than usual, it may be because your heart is working harder to keep up.
- A new cough Fluid in the lungs can cause coughing that doesn’t go away or wheezing that feels different from seasonal allergies or a cold.
- Trouble breathing at night Needing extra pillows to sleep comfortably or waking up short of breath can be a sign of fluid backing up in the lungs.
- Lower appetite or nausea When fluid builds up in the abdomen, it can make you feel full quickly or cause stomach discomfort.
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating Reduced blood flow to the brain may lead to memory problems, trouble focusing, or feeling mentally foggy.
It’s easy to dismiss these symptoms as aging or stress, but they’re all worth a call to your care team.
