7. Cough or Wheezing: The Covert Messengers of Cardiomyopathy
Experiencing a persistent cough or wheezing that won’t go away? While these symptoms might seem more related to respiratory problems, they could also be signs of cardiomyopathy. If the heart isn’t pumping efficiently, fluid can back up into the lungs, causing a persistent cough or wheezing.
The cough might be dry, or it could produce pink, frothy mucus. Wheezing, or a high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe, can also occur. Both these symptoms can worsen when you’re lying down or during the night, often disrupting sleep.
Again, while these symptoms are common in conditions like asthma or bronchitis, it’s essential not to dismiss them, especially if they’re accompanied by other symptoms on this list. If you’ve been experiencing a persistent cough or wheezing that doesn’t seem to improve with typical treatments, it’s worth discussing it with your healthcare provider. (7)
