Symptoms of HF

AWARENESS OF HEART FAILURE
SYMPTOMS IS
DANGEROUSLY LOW.1

Keeping track

You are probably aware of the most common symptoms of heart failure (HF), such as shortness of breath or tiredness, but it is important to be aware of all of the symptoms so that you can keep track of the with your doctor. 

The types of symptoms and severity of these can be related to numerous factors such as other underlying illnesses. 

For this reason, it is always important to keep a close eye on your symptoms and any changes to them.

Symptoms can include2,3:

 

                                               

Shortness of breath

This can occur even when not doing strenuous activities and may even be worse when lying down

                                               

Tiredness or fatigue

Feeling tired most of the time and finding exercise and physical activities exhausting

                                               

Swollen ankles, legs, or abdomen

Caused by a build-up of fluid 

Other, less common symptoms may include2,3:

• Rapid or irregular heart rate

• Lack of appetite and nausea

• Persistent coughing or wheezing

• Difficulty concentrating or confusion

Worsening symptoms

As people living with HF get older, their symptoms may change. Sometimes symptoms become more severe, having a larger impact on their day-to-day life. Always track your symptoms and their development and note any changes with your healthcare team. This may impact whether you need to change your management plan.

Keep track of your heart failure symptoms

Track your symptoms

References

  1. AstraZeneca PLP. Data on File. ID: REF – 74964. March 2020
  2. NHS. Symptoms of heart failure. Available online at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heart-failure/symptoms/. Last accessed August 25 2020
  3. Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of Heart Failure. Available online at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142. Last accessed August 25 2020