Symptom 2: Fatigue and Weakness
As diastolic heart failure progresses, individuals often report a profound sense of fatigue and overall weakness. Given the heart’s compromised capacity to pump sufficient blood, the body doesn’t receive an adequate supply of oxygenated blood.
This scarcity of oxygen-rich blood directly impacts the muscles and tissues of the body, leaving a person feeling chronically tired or weak. Physical tasks that were once routine can now feel laborious. It’s not just about a fleeting feeling of exhaustion, but a persistent fatigue that doesn’t get better with rest.
Such fatigue often leads to reduced physical activity and an overall decline in a person’s quality of life. Some people may attribute this symptom to aging or a hectic lifestyle. However, if you’re experiencing chronic fatigue paired with other symptoms outlined here, it might be time to consider heart health and seek medical advice.
Moreover, alongside this physical fatigue, individuals might also experience cognitive decline. Studies suggest that patients with heart failure often encounter concentration problems and slowed thinking, primarily due to reduced blood flow to the brain.
Thus, fatigue and weakness in the context of diastolic heart failure are not just physical manifestations, but encompass cognitive aspects as well. If these symptoms persist, don’t ignore them; seek prompt medical evaluation. (2)
