6. Lack of Appetite or Nausea – The Unexpected Symptom of Acute Systolic Heart Failure
Lack of appetite or nausea might seem like unlikely symptoms of heart failure, but they can indeed signal acute systolic heart failure. If you’re feeling nauseated or simply don’t feel like eating, it could be because your digestive system is experiencing the impact of poor circulation due to heart failure.
In acute systolic heart failure, the heart’s compromised pumping action means less blood reaches the digestive system. The digestive system requires a constant blood supply to digest food and absorb nutrients. When this blood supply is inadequate, it can disrupt normal digestion, leading to feelings of nausea or lack of appetite.
Furthermore, the buildup of fluid in the liver and intestines can cause discomfort and decrease your appetite. In some cases, this might also result in weight loss over time. It’s crucial not to dismiss these symptoms, especially if they’re accompanied by other signs like shortness of breath or fatigue.
Recognizing these signs can be challenging, especially since they’re typically associated with gastrointestinal problems, not heart issues. However, the human body functions as an interconnected system, and an issue in one area can ripple out to affect others. The lack of appetite or nausea you’re experiencing might be more than just a digestive issue; it could be your body signaling an underlying heart problem. (6)
