10. Swelling of the Abdomen (Ascites): A Telling Sign of Advanced Heart Failure
As chronic systolic heart failure advances, the signs become more severe and even potentially life-threatening. One such symptom is the swelling of the abdomen, medically known as ascites. Ascites, indicative of severe heart failure, is a condition where fluid accumulates in the peritoneal cavity, the space within the abdomen that houses the intestines, liver, and stomach.
This accumulation of fluid is a consequence of the increasing pressure in the blood vessels, known as congestion, as the heart fails to pump blood effectively. The raised pressure forces fluid out of the blood vessels and into the abdominal cavity, leading to ascites.
Ascites can result in various discomforts and complications. The most obvious is the noticeable increase in waist size and the feeling of heaviness or fullness in the abdomen. This could also be associated with discomfort or pain due to the stretching of the abdominal wall.
It’s also common for individuals with ascites to experience other associated symptoms. These can include shortness of breath due to the increased abdominal pressure limiting the expansion of the lungs, decreased appetite, and nausea due to the pressure on the stomach. In some cases, individuals may also develop hernias due to increased abdominal pressure.
Advanced symptoms like ascites require immediate medical attention. Not only do they significantly impact the individual’s quality of life, but they also suggest a poor prognosis. They indicate that the heart failure has advanced to a stage where compensatory mechanisms are no longer sufficient, and aggressive treatment measures are urgently needed.
Ascites and other advanced heart failure symptoms highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of chronic systolic heart failure. The earlier the condition is identified and managed, the better the chances of slowing disease progression and improving the quality and length of life. (10)
