Symptom 3. Edema: Swelling as a Silent Indicator
Swelling, or edema, is another silent indicator of chronic heart failure. Primarily noticeable in the legs, ankles, and feet, edema occurs due to fluid accumulation in these areas, a repercussion of the heart’s reduced pumping capability.
What is interesting is the pattern of this swelling. Unlike regular swelling that might occur after an injury or a long day on your feet, edema related to heart failure doesn’t dissipate after a good night’s sleep. It lingers, often worsening as the day progresses.
But what causes this symptom? As the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, the kidneys receive less blood. This reduced blood flow triggers the kidneys to retain sodium and water, which eventually leads to fluid build-up in the tissues, manifesting as edema.
Recognizing edema is crucial as it might be the first visible sign of chronic heart failure. People often notice their shoes feeling tighter or their socks leaving impressions on their skin. These seemingly insignificant changes might be your body signaling the onset of chronic heart failure.
While swelling is common in various conditions, when it comes to chronic heart failure, it’s essential to connect the dots. Recognizing this symptom, especially when it accompanies other heart failure signs, could lead to an early diagnosis and better disease management. (3)
