Signs of a Weak Heart

Introduction

The heart is one of the most vital organs in the human body, responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood to all tissues. When the heart becomes weak, it struggles to perform this function efficiently, leading to several signs and symptoms. A weak heart can be caused by a variety of conditions, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, and other cardiovascular disorders.

Common Signs of a Weak Heart

1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)

• Occurs during physical activity or even at rest.
• May worsen when lying down (orthopnea) or during sleep (paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea).

2. Fatigue and Weakness

• The heart cannot pump enough oxygen to muscles, leading to persistent tiredness.
• Patients may feel exhausted even after minor activities.

3. Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, and Feet (Edema)

• Retention of fluids due to improper blood circulation.
• Swelling may extend to the abdomen in severe cases.

4. Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia)

• The heart may beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
• Patients may experience palpitations or a fluttering sensation in the chest.

5. Persistent Cough or Wheezing

• Fluid buildup in the lungs can lead to a chronic cough, sometimes producing white or pink-tinged phlegm.

6. Dizziness and Fainting

• A weak heart can cause poor blood circulation to the brain, leading to dizziness or even syncope (fainting).

7. Chest Pain or Discomfort

• In some cases, reduced blood supply to the heart leads to angina (chest pain).
• Patients may also experience tightness, pressure, or heaviness in the chest.

8. Decrease in Exercise Tolerance

• Patients may find it hard to engage in simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or carrying groceries.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms consistently, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve heart function.

Conclusion

A weak heart is a serious condition that requires prompt attention. By recognizing the signs early and adopting lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and proper medication adherence, patients can live a longer and healthier life.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Heart Failure

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001063
2. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-failure
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
4. https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/get-with-the-guidelines/get-with-the-guidelines-heart-failure
5. https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/-/media/832EA0F4E73948848612F228F7FA2D35.ashx

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute and Chronic Heart Failure

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Acute-and-Chronic-Heart-Failure
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34447992/
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Focused-Update-on-Heart-Failure-Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/36/3599/6358045
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27206819/