To many, heart failure would mean that the heart stops working. However, this is not what the terminology means. It means that the heart becomes weak and is unable to pump out blood as efficiently as it should. Also, the heart is unable to meet the oxygen and nutrients need of the tissue of the body. Congestive heart failure is generally classified into two types, one known as systolic heart failure and the other as diastolic heart failure.

Congestive heart failure is no doubt a condition that is very serious and can disrupt an individual’s lifestyle. However, advanced medicinal developments have helped in lowering the severity of this disorder. Heart failure can affect any person; however, the older generation and people with heart diseases are more likely to be affected. Although the causes and symptoms will vary from person to person, here are some symptoms that you should look out for before it is too late.

Falling short of breath – This is the first and the most common symptom of heart failure that an individual will experience. The smallest of activity will leave you panting. Not just this, even resting flat or waking up from sleep can leave you falling short of breath.

Physical activity intolerance – Any physical activity, like walking or exercising, becomes unable to tolerate. These may be activities that you used to seamlessly do before. When a person is involved in an exerting physical activity, the body requires more oxygen and nutrients. A failed heart is unable to serve the needs of the body by producing enough oxygen and nutrients.

Swelling of body parts – An individual may notice swelling in particular parts of the body especially after a long day of work. The puffiness can be seen in the lower body that is on the feet and the ankles.

Weight gain – Weight gain will prominently be very quickly. A person tends to put on weight at a quick pace that does not seem normal. This is because the body retains a lot of fluid that is not passed out. The abdomen, too tends to swell up. Keeping a track of weight gain is necessary.

Constant coughing – A person feels the need to cough persistently. This is followed by a pinkish-white phlegm. The foamy mucus comes across as pink due to the tinge of blood that is coughed out.

Lack of enthusiasm and nausea – The heart is weak and that causes the body to feel weak at all time. A person will feel enthusiastic during the day. Moreover, there is a lack of appetite and nauseous feeling.