Symptom 8. Increased Urination at Night: A Silent Signal
Increased urination at night, also known as nocturia, might seem like an inconvenience at most, but in the context of ADHF, it takes on a different connotation. This symptom, although easily overlooked, can be a telltale sign of ADHF.
In ADHF, fluid retention is a significant issue due to the heart’s impaired ability to pump blood efficiently. During the day, while you are upright, the excess fluid tends to accumulate in the lower extremities due to gravity. However, when you lie down to sleep at night, this fluid gets redistributed, leading to an increase in blood flow to the kidneys.
The kidneys, responding to the increased blood flow, produce more urine. This change results in frequent trips to the bathroom during the night. While it’s easy to dismiss this symptom as a result of aging or having too much water before bed, it’s crucial to view it in the context of other ADHF symptoms. (8)
