Symptom 9: Chest Pain or Discomfort During Activity
Chest pain or discomfort during activity, known as angina, is a significant symptom of left-sided heart failure. This typically occurs as the heart strains to deliver blood to your body, particularly during increased physical effort or stress. Consequently, the heart muscle may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, leading to discomfort or pain in the chest.
This symptom is often described as a feeling of fullness, tightness, pressure, or aching in the chest that usually starts in the center or left side. The pain can vary in intensity and duration, and may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach. Some people might also experience breathlessness or fatigue alongside angina.
Angina often subsides with rest or medication; however, it’s important to note that any chest pain is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical attention. Promptly reporting such symptoms can aid in early detection of left-sided heart failure or other serious cardiovascular conditions, enabling timely treatment and better health outcomes. (9)
