Some heart failure symptoms may appear gradually, over several days, or more suddenly. Some are more severe than others, and may lead to emergency medical care. A patient who experiences one or more of these symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor. These tests include an electrocardiogram, an echocardiogram, a magnetic resonance imaging test, and a cardiac catheterization. These tests can help determine the cause and type of heart failure. These tests can also determine how severe the heart failure is, and whether the condition is progressing.
Early symptoms of heart failure may be mild or barely noticeable. But as the condition progresses, the symptoms can become very severe, limiting a patient’s daily activities. Often, treatment can help to minimize these symptoms, although they won’t completely eliminate them. For example, it is possible to treat blood clots, a symptom of heart failure. However, sudden heart failure symptoms may occur without warning. These include eating too much salt or skipping a dose of medicine.
If your symptoms are severe, it is important to consult a doctor. Your doctor will perform blood tests to check your blood count, kidney, and liver functions. He or she will also look for chemical markers of heart failure. In addition to blood tests, a chest x-ray will show if your heart is enlarged or if fluid is collecting in your lungs. Finally, an electrocardiogram can show any damage to your heart from a previous heart attack.
Some heart failure patients may experience an edema, a buildup of fluid in the body tissues. This swelling usually affects the legs and feet. The patient may also gain weight or use tight shoes to help manage the condition. These heart failure symptoms can make it difficult for a patient to participate in physical activities. As a result, it is important to visit a doctor immediately. Even if your symptoms are mild, they can affect your quality of life.
The first heart failure symptom is shortness of breath. It is hard to tell if a person is suffering from this disease because it is similar to many other conditions. During an assessment, the doctor will determine if any changes have occurred in your lifestyle. During this time, the physician may be able to make a diagnosis. A patient with a heart failure will need to undergo treatment if the symptoms are severe and affecting them.
Shortness of breath is one of the most common heart failure symptoms. In the case of left-sided heart failure, this symptom may be caused by a buildup of fluid in the lungs. It may also be accompanied by chest pain. Some people with heart failure are unable to exercise, which is a common sign of heart failure. The person may have difficulty walking even though they’ve been working for a long time.