10. Persistent Cough or Wheezing – The Respiratory Red Flag for Heart Complications
The tenth symptom to be aware of is persistent cough or wheezing. While cough and wheezing are commonly associated with respiratory conditions like asthma or lung disease, they can sometimes indicate heart problems.
This is particularly the case if the cough or wheezing is accompanied by white or pink blood-tinged mucus, which could be a sign of fluid buildup in the lungs. This condition, known as heart failure, can also lead to a persistent wheezing or a cough that doesn’t go away.
When the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, pressure in the heart’s veins can build up, leading to fluid leakage into the lungs – a condition known as pulmonary edema. This fluid can then irritate the airways, leading to coughing and wheezing.
A cough caused by heart issues will typically be worse at night or when you’re lying down due to the redistribution of fluid in the body. Additionally, it’s often accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling in the legs and ankles.
As always, it’s critical to remember that coughing and wheezing are common symptoms and are most often due to conditions other than heart problems, such as allergies, infections, or lung diseases. However, if you’re experiencing a persistent cough or wheezing that can’t be explained, particularly if it’s associated with other symptoms we’ve discussed, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. (10)
