Recognizing early symptoms of heart failure is crucial, as they can appear about a month before a potential heart attack. Identifying these signs can help protect your heart health.
One common warning is swollen feet or ankles, often due to congestive heart failure where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid buildup in the lower extremities.
Persistent, unexplained fatigue and drowsiness may indicate narrowed arteries, which force your heart to work harder and reduce its blood supply.
Shortness of breath is another serious symptom, as reduced heart function can limit oxygen flow to the lungs, highlighting the critical link between cardiac and respiratory health.
Generalized weakness throughout the body can result from poor circulation, preventing muscles from receiving adequate nourishment and potentially leading to unexpected falls or instability.
Experiencing dizziness or cold sweats may signal dangerously restricted blood flow to the brain, a condition that requires immediate medical evaluation.
Paying attention to these symptoms—swelling, fatigue, breathlessness, weakness, and dizziness—allows for timely intervention. Consulting a healthcare provider upon noticing these signs is essential for safeguarding your long-term heart health.
