Heart Failure Symptoms — Signs, Causes & What to Watch For

Heart Failure Symptoms — Signs, Causes & What to Watch For Heart failure is a serious health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. But with early recognition and proper care, symptoms can be managed effectively. Understanding the symptoms of heart failure is the first step in protecting your heart health and improving daily life. At Dr. Shinde’s Pune Heart Failure Clinic, we believe informed patients make better health decisions. Below is a comprehensive guide to the most common symptoms, why they occur, and when to seek medical attention.

What Is Heart Failure? Despite the name, heart failure doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working. It means the heart isn’t pumping blood as well as it should. This leads to fluid buildup in the body and a range of symptoms that can worsen over time if left untreated. Common causes include: ●​ Coronary artery disease​ ●​ High blood pressure​ ●​ Diabetes​ ●​ Previous heart attack​ ●​ Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy)​

Heart failure can be left-sided, right-sided, or involve both sides of the heart.

Common Signs & Symptoms of Heart Failure 1. Shortness of Breath One of the most noticeable symptoms is difficulty breathing — especially during:

●​ Physical activity​ ●​ Lying flat in bed​ ●​ Nighttime sleep (causing you to wake up short of breath)​

This happens when fluid backs up into the lungs due to inefficient heart pumping.

2. Fatigue and Weakness When the heart can't deliver enough oxygen-rich blood to your organs, everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs may feel exhausting.

3. Swelling in Feet, Legs, and Abdomen Also known as edema, fluid retention is a hallmark of heart failure. You might notice: ●​ Puffiness in ankles or legs​ ●​ Tight shoes or socks​ ●​ Swelling in the belly area​

4. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat Your heart may beat faster or unevenly as it tries to compensate for reduced pumping ability. You might feel: ●​ Palpitations​ ●​ Fluttering sensations​ ●​ Racing pulse​

5. Persistent Cough or Wheezing A lingering cough or wheezing may indicate fluid build-up in the lungs and should not be ignored — especially if accompanied by white or pink-tinged phlegm.

6. Increased Urination at Night Heart failure can affect kidney function, leading to a stronger urge to urinate during the night.

7. Confusion or Poor Concentration Reduced blood flow to the brain can make it hard to think clearly, remember things, or stay focused — especially in older adults.

8. Loss of Appetite and Nausea Fluid buildup around the liver and digestive tract may lead to: ●​ Early fullness​ ●​ Nausea​ ●​ Loss of appetite​

When to See a Doctor Heart failure symptoms can be subtle at first. However, seek urgent medical care if you experience: ●​ Sudden severe shortness of breath​ ●​ Fainting or loss of consciousness​ ●​ Severe swelling of legs or abdomen​

●​ Rapid weight gain over a few days​ ●​ Chest pain​

Early detection and treatment can drastically improve outcomes and quality of life.

Why Early Recognition Matters If left untreated, heart failure symptoms can progressively worsen and lead to serious complications. Early treatment can help: ●​ Reduce symptoms​ ●​ Improve daily functioning​ ●​ Lower hospitalization risk​ ●​ Prolong life​

At Pune Heart Failure Clinic, we combine expert care with personalized treatment plans focused on your lifestyle and health goals.

Final Thoughts Understanding the symptoms of heart failure empowers you to take control of your health. If you or a loved one notice any of the warning signs above, don’t wait — early evaluation by a heart failure specialist can make all the difference.