Symptom 3: Persistent Cough or Wheezing
Left-sided heart failure may lead to another symptom known as persistent coughing or wheezing. When the heart struggles to pump efficiently, fluid backs up into the lungs, a condition referred to as pulmonary congestion. This results in coughing and wheezing, which are the body’s natural responses to clear the lungs of this excess fluid.
This coughing is not your typical, occasional cough. Rather, it’s a persistent, chronic cough that doesn’t resolve with over-the-counter cough suppressants. It’s also different in character, producing a frothy mucus that may be tinged with blood. While this can be an alarming sight, it’s the body’s way of signalling that something isn’t right.
Wheezing, another common manifestation, is a whistling or squeaky sound during breathing. This occurs when the airways in your lungs become narrowed or blocked, forcing air through a smaller passage. Combined with persistent coughing, this could indicate a possible issue with the heart, such as left-sided heart failure.
However, just as with the previous symptoms, a persistent cough or wheezing alone does not confirm left-sided heart failure. Other conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can produce similar symptoms. Therefore, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. (3)
