Symptom 2: Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)
One of the more recognizable symptoms of left-sided heart failure is shortness of breath, medically termed as dyspnea. This isn’t merely a feeling of being winded after physical exertion. Rather, dyspnea presents itself as a severe difficulty in breathing, even while performing the simplest tasks, or sometimes even at rest.
This symptom occurs because, as the left side of the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, it causes fluid to back up into the lungs. This fluid accumulation, known as pulmonary edema, can result in breathlessness and a persistent cough, often producing frothy, pinkish sputum.
When this symptom becomes severe, it could manifest even during periods of rest. For some people, this dyspnea is most apparent when lying flat due to fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to a condition called orthopnea. This may result in people needing multiple pillows or having to sit upright to sleep.
It’s crucial to pay attention to this symptom, as a sudden worsening of shortness of breath can indicate a medical emergency. Remember, dyspnea, especially when combined with other symptoms, could indicate left-sided heart failure and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. (2)
