Symptom 2. Edema: A Sign of Trouble Brewing
Edema, or the abnormal accumulation of fluid in certain body tissues, is another red flag signaling ADHF. This symptom typically manifests in the lower extremities, particularly the legs and ankles. However, fluid can also accumulate in the lungs, leading to the aforementioned shortness of breath.
The link between ADHF and edema stems from the heart’s poor pumping action. When the heart fails to pump out enough blood, the kidneys, in response, retain more sodium and water in an attempt to compensate for the perceived shortfall. This reaction, however, backfires as the retained fluid ends up accumulating in the body’s tissues, resulting in edema.
Edema can be distressing, causing swelling and discomfort in affected areas. The skin may appear shiny or stretched, and you might notice pitting — a temporary indentation left on the skin after pressing on the swollen area. Edema’s severity tends to vary, often worsening after prolonged standing or sitting and improving upon waking after a night’s rest.
This symptom is a clear sign of the body’s struggle with the declining heart function. The system is attempting to balance the scales, but unfortunately, it only exacerbates the issue. Understanding this symptom can help prompt early intervention in acute decompensated heart failure. (2)
