Heart Failure Awareness: Know the Signs, Reduce the Risk
Heart Failure: Recognize the Silent Threat
Heart failure affects over 6 million Americans, yet its early warning signs often go unnoticed or are dismissed as normal aging. Understanding these symptoms can lead to earlier intervention and better outcomes.
Heart failure is a progressive disease in which the heart fails to pump blood efficiently. It is one of the top reasons for hospitalization and affects more than 6 million Americans. However, few people know its early warning signs, which are frequently misinterpreted as the natural aging process or benign health issues.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Detection early on may lead to better outcomes. Watch for:
✔ Shortness of breath — Particularly with exertion or when lying down
✔ Swelling (edema) — In the legs, ankles, feet or abdomen
✔ Chronic fatigue – A daily sensation of tiredness
✔ Palpitations – indication that heart is working harder
✔ Chronic cough or wheezing — usually bringing pink, frothy mucus
✔ Unexplained weight gain – Fluid retention from poor cardiac output
✔ Regularly needing to urinate at night — Because of shifting fluids within the body
Know Your Risk Factors for Heart Failure
Heart failure risk increases with conditions like hypertension, coronary artery disease, and diabetes. While family history plays a role, managing lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity can significantly reduce your risk.
Who’s at Risk?
Heart failure is caused by several conditions and lifestyle factors, including:
🔹 High BP – Hypertension uncontrolled acts on what weakens heart in long term
🔹 Coronary artery disease — Ischemic arteries reduce blood supply
🔹 Diabetes – raises the risk of heart complications
🔹 Obesity – Puts pressure on the heart and increases blood pressure
🔹 Smoking & alcohol abuse — Impairs heart muscle & blood vessels
🔹 Family history — Genetics are a factor
How to Manage and Prevent Heart Failure
Though some risk factors are unavoidable, lifestyle changes and medical management can greatly decrease risk and delay progression:
A heart-healthy lifestyle isn't just about avoiding heart disease—it's about thriving in good health, feeling energized, and ensuring that your heart continues to support a long, healthy life.
Take charge of your heart health today. Contact us to schedule a heart health checkup.
