Sign 7. Persistent Coughing: An Uncommon Signpost of Heart Failure
Persistent coughing or wheezing might seem like a residual symptom of a passing cold or an allergy trigger. However, it could be an early sign of heart failure. When the heart’s pumping efficiency drops, fluid can back up into the lungs, causing this symptom.
This cough is distinctive. It tends to persist, often producing white or pink mucus that’s indicative of blood. It’s not a symptom that comes and goes like a regular cough. Instead, it’s a chronic presence, refusing to fade away even after remedies.
Recognizing this cough requires careful observation. Not all coughs point towards heart failure. However, a persistent cough that doesn’t respond to conventional remedies, and is accompanied by other signs like breathlessness or fatigue, is a crucial signal.
Coughing or wheezing related to heart failure may be more pronounced during physical activity or when lying flat. Spotting this pattern can aid in distinguishing this symptom from a common cough. (7)
