Congestive heart disease is also known as congestive heart failure, or simply heart failure. Congestive heart disease may be caused by narrow arteries or high blood pressure, according to the Mayo Clinic. It occurs when the heart cannot pump blood adequately for the needs of the body. Understanding the symptoms of congestive heart disease can be crucial for preventing further complications.
Swelling
Swelling can be one of the first signs of congestive heart disease. The American Heart Association reports that this swelling occurs because the heart is not able to pump as efficiently as it usually does. This causes build-up of blood and other fluids, resulting in swelling. Medline Plus reports that this swelling may be present in the feet, ankles and abdomen.
Breathing Difficulties
Congestive heart disease may also cause fluid to accumulate in the lungs. The American Heart Association reports that this can cause difficulty breathing as well as shortness of breath. These symptoms may occur when a person exerts themselves; however, it may also become worse when that person lies down, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition, the person with congestive heart disease may also wheeze when they breathe, or cough up mucus. This mucus may be white, or pinkish if it is been tinged with blood.
Weight Gain
According to the Mayo Clinic, sudden weight gain may occur as a result of congestive heart disease, and is often a result of associated swelling. The difference between this weight gain and so-called "normal" weight gain is that the person will become significantly heavier in a short amount of time.
Fatigue
A person with congestive heart disease may notice that they are more tired than usual. The American Heart Association reports that they may not be able to exert themselves without becoming fatigued. Medline Plus reports that someone with congestive heart disease may also feel faint. This may be caused by a combination of fluid buildup in the lungs, which makes breathing more difficult, and the decreased ability of the heart to keep up with the body's demands.
Decreased Alertness
In addition to fatigue, the Mayo Clinic reports that a person with congestive heart disease may also have trouble concentrating. They may appear confused, or simply seem less alert than usual.
Abnormal Heartbeat
Medline Plus reports that a person with congestive heart disease may also have an irregular heartbeat. Their heart may beat faster than normal, or may beat erratically. In addition, the person may have heart palpitations, when they actually feel their heart beating in their chest (most people normally do not notice their heartbeat).
Other Symptoms
Medline Plus reports that some people with congestive heart disease may not notice any of the above symptoms; however, they may have other symptoms present that could point toward their heart condition. These include anemia, hyperthyroidism, infections that cause a fever or even kidney disease.
