What is Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a chronic progressive condition that affects the pumping power of the heart muscles. It typically results from cardiac damage due to coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or heart valve issues, leading to the heart’s inability to supply sufficient blood to the body. This can cause blood and fluid to back up in the lungs, the liver, the gastrointestinal tract, and the limbs.
Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure
Symptoms of CHF can vary based on the severity and progression of the disease, including:
- Shortness of Breath: Notably during activity or while lying down.
- Edema: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet due to fluid accumulation.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time and difficulty with everyday activities.
- Rapid Heartbeat: Experiencing a heart rate that feels too fast, irregular, or throbbing.
- Persistent Cough or Wheezing: With white or pink blood-tinged phlegm.
- Increased Need to Urinate at Night: Needing to urinate more often during the night.
- Swelling of the Abdomen: Also known as ascites, indicating fluid accumulation in the abdominal area.
Identifying these symptoms early can help manage the condition more effectively and improve quality of life.