Heart failure symptoms
Generally symptoms of heart failure develop slowly. However, if the cause of heart failure is a heart attack symptoms will be sudden.
Many of the symptoms of heart failure are subtle or mimic other medical conditions.
It is important not to overlook any of the following symptoms and to see a doctor promptly.
Symptoms of heart failure include:
- Tiredness
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Chest pain
- Heart palpitations
- Swelling (edema) in the ankles, legs or abdomen
- Problems breathing when resting or lying down
- Frequent dry irritating cough
- Weight gain
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness
People living with chronic heart failure should notify their doctor if their symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear. If you are caring for someone with heart failure ensure you have an up to date action plan.
The plan should tell you what signs to look out for and what to do if symptoms change including when to go to hospital in case of a medical emergency.
Related articles
References
Heart Foundation Information Sheet
Heart failure
Accessed 21/05/09
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