Symptom 5: Lack of Appetite or Nausea: The Lesser-Known Signs of CHF
Many of us associate heart-related ailments with palpitations or chest pain, yet congestive heart failure (CHF) manifests itself in several, often unexpected ways. Among these are a sudden lack of appetite or a persistent feeling of nausea – lesser-known, but potentially significant indicators of CHF.
The heart’s role as the primary pumping organ extends far beyond mere blood circulation. Its function affects our digestive system as well. When the heart’s efficiency decreases, as seen in CHF, it can disrupt the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal (GI) system, leading to symptoms such as lack of appetite or persistent nausea.
As CHF progresses, the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently declines. This leads to a reduced blood flow to other organs, including the GI tract. As a result, the digestive system may not receive sufficient blood supply, hindering its ability to function effectively. This situation can result in a lack of appetite, with patients often reporting that they feel full or bloated even after eating a small amount of food.
Alongside a lack of appetite, individuals with CHF may also experience persistent nausea. This uneasy feeling isn’t solely due to a dysfunctional digestive system. It can be attributed to the build-up of toxins in the blood, resulting from the heart’s decreased ability to circulate blood efficiently. With these toxins lingering in the body, it’s no surprise that a feeling of constant nausea or an upset stomach is a common complaint among CHF patients.(5)
