The heart is what enables the body to function well, by delivering blood with oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs. When this process fails, it is known as heart failure. Several factors can lead to congestive heart failure; these include a history of a heart attack and anything that increases oxygen demand or a blood vessel obstruction. The symptoms that indicate end-stage congestive heart failure include shortness of breath, problems sleeping, nausea and decreased appetite.
Shortness of Breath
Over time, when the heart is unable to supply the body with blood, a backup of blood and fluid builds up within the lungs. This can lead to an accumulation of fluid in the legs, known as edema, with noticeable swelling of the legs and ankles. It also makes it difficult to breathe, as the lungs are unable to expand, and shortness of breath occurs, especially during strenuous activity. This shortness of breath is called dyspnea; when it occurs at night, it is known as orthopnea. In this latter case, the patient is unable to sleep comfortably without sitting upright or without the help of extra pillows, which decrease the blood and fluid back flow.
Weight Gain and Loss of Appetite
According to the Mayo Clinic, the increased accumulation of fluid within the body may cause sudden weight gain as well as increased urination at night. The increased fluid also affects the liver and intestines. The liver becomes enlarged and is not able to perform its function, which is to detoxify drugs and remove wastes from the body. The intestines are not able to reabsorb nutrients, and a person can experience decreased appetite and nausea.
Decreased Mental Alertness
The Mayo Clinic reports that end-stage congestive heart failure can also affect organs such as the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. The kidneys act as the filtration system of the body and need adequate amount of blood in order to function. They also remove ammonia from the body. Ammonia can be converted into urea, which is toxic to the brain. According to the Mayo Clinic, this can cause decreased mental alertness.
