Symptom 10: Sudden Scale Surprises – The Rapid Weight Gain
Contrasting sharply with the loss of appetite, another symptom that may alarm individuals with systolic heart failure is rapid weight gain. However, it’s important to note that this increase in weight isn’t the result of overeating or a lack of physical activity. Instead, it’s due to fluid overload in the body, a direct result of the heart’s decreased pumping capacity.
The underlying cause of this sudden weight gain lies in the dysfunctional blood circulation caused by systolic heart failure. With the heart’s diminished pumping capacity, blood can back up in the venous system, increasing venous pressure. This increase in pressure can force fluid out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissues, causing fluid overload and consequent weight gain.
Observing this symptom might be distressing for many, as the numbers on the scale climb despite a loss of appetite or maintained dietary habits. The increased weight can also exacerbate the strain on the heart, creating a vicious cycle that intensifies the heart’s struggles.
Compounding the issue, the presence of fluid overload can be indicative of worsening systolic heart failure. As such, sudden weight gain warrants immediate attention, as it might signal the need for an adjustment in treatment strategies. (10)
