Symptom 9. Loss of Concentration or Increased Confusion: A Foggy Brain
A less recognized but significant symptom of heart failure is a change in cognitive abilities, such as decreased concentration or increased confusion. These signs might seem more connected to brain health than heart health, but there’s a clear link between the two.
In heart failure, the heart’s compromised ability to pump blood can mean that less oxygen-rich blood reaches the brain. The brain relies heavily on a constant supply of oxygen to function correctly, and a lack of this can lead to cognitive issues. Women may notice that they are more forgetful, have difficulty focusing, or are more easily confused.
It’s important to remember that these cognitive changes can be subtle and might be mistakenly attributed to aging or stress. However, persistent or worsening cognitive issues, especially if they coincide with other heart failure symptoms, should be brought to a healthcare professional’s attention. (9)
