Sign 6: Difficulty Lying Flat
For most of us, lying flat in bed is the first step towards a good night’s sleep. But for those beginning to experience cardiomyopathy, it can bring discomfort. If you find you’re sleeping propped up on several pillows or unable to lie flat without feeling short of breath, it’s time to pay attention.
This difficulty arises because when you lie flat, your heart may struggle to pump the increased blood flow from your legs back to your heart. This can lead to fluid accumulation in your lungs, a condition called pulmonary edema, which can make you feel short of breath.
Difficulty lying flat due to breathlessness is a symptom you should not ignore. While it might be tempting to just add more pillows and adapt, it’s vital to discuss this change with your healthcare provider. Difficulty lying flat due to breathlessness is a common sign of heart conditions, including cardiomyopathy, and warrants further investigation. (6)
