Signs of CHF
With CHF your heart does not pump well, so pressure builds up in your lungs and blood vessels of your chest. Symptoms vary depending upon which side of your heart is affected.
- Fatigue – Often the first symptom of CHF is fatigue.
- Racing heart – You may notice your heart rate increase.
- Shortness of breath – Breathing becomes more difficult. At night, you may be able to fall asleep but after a couple of hours you may suddenly awaken, feeling very short of breath and restless. Breathing is easier when you are sitting up. If your CHF is severe, you may breathe rapidly and have to gasp for each breath.
- Weak cough – You may or may not have a cough. If you have left sided heart failure, you may have a dry, hacking cough. Your cough may produce white, pink, or frothy phlegm, or none at all. You may also wheeze as you breathe.
- Dizziness – You may feel weak and dizzy, confused, restless, and you may even lose consciousness.
- Swelling – Swelling may occur in your legs and feet. If you have severe CHF, your entire body may swell.
- Pain – Swelling within your abdomen may cause you to have pain. Pain is usually greatest in the upper right side of the abdomen. You may gain weight as you retain fluid.
- Cool, pale skin – You may be pale. If breathing is very difficult, you may be sweaty and your complexion may have a blue or grey tinge. This is likely to be especially apparent around your lips. Your skin may be cool.
- Protruding veins – The veins in your neck may protrude.
- Feeling ill – You may feel bloated and nauseated, and may vomit.
Complications of CHF
Fluid may accumulate in your lungs, making breathing difficult. This can result in infections such as pneumonia.
You are also at risk for developing a blood clot in the left side of your heart, which could travel to your brain and cause a stroke. Your kidneys and liver may become damaged due to the imbalance of fluids.
COPD and CHF
Many symptoms of COPD and CHF are similar, so it can be difficult to tell them apart. Having both diseases can make treatment more challenging, but most people who have CHF and/or COPD are able to live fairly normal lives.
If you experience difficulty breathing or think that you have COPD or CHF, see your doctor. Seek emergency medical treatment promptly if your shortness of breath is severe, as both illnesses can be life threatening.
