Sign 3. Shortness of Breath: The Invisible Chain of Heart Failure
Breathlessness, or dyspnea, a common symptom for many conditions, holds significant importance when decoding the signs of heart failure. When the heart’s pumping ability dwindles, it fails to meet the body’s oxygen demand, leading to shortness of breath.
Often, this breathlessness isn’t obvious and is mistaken for physical unfitness. Individuals might find themselves struggling for air during routine activities, like climbing stairs or carrying groceries, activities they previously accomplished without any discomfort. This change calls for attention and should not be dismissed casually.
The severity and frequency of breathlessness can vary among individuals. Some might find themselves gasping for breath after minimal physical exertion, while others might experience it only after intense activities. Importantly, shortness of breath related to heart failure is often progressive, worsening over time.
An intriguing aspect of this symptom is its occurrence during rest, particularly when lying flat. This phenomenon, known as orthopnea, is a classic sign of heart failure. Individuals might find relief by propping themselves up with pillows or sitting upright, a pattern that’s vital in distinguishing this symptom.(3)
