Congestive heart failure, also simply called heart failure, is a usually chronic condition where the heart does not pump an adequate amount of blood, resulting in the tissues not receiving enough nutrition or oxygen, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) have developed a classification system for the stages of heart disease, with stage A being the earliest and stage D being end stage congestive heart failure.
Lung Symptoms
Because fluid builds up in the lungs during end stage (stage D) congestive heart failure, there are multiple symptoms that affect breathing The Mayo Clinic reports that one symptom is difficulty breathing, even at rest. Difficulty breathing will persist, especially while lying down, as fluid accumulates in the lungs. Other lung symptoms include persistent coughing; coughing up phlegm that is pink-colored because of blood; and wheezing. These lung symptoms will be especially severe, because persons with end stage congestive heart failure, according to the AHA and the ACC, have all the symptoms of those with stage C, but these symptoms tend to be more severe and persistent and do not respond well to medical intervention. In end stage heart failure, the person experiences symptoms even at rest.
Heart Symptoms
In end stage congestive heart failure, there may be certain detectable symptoms that involve the heart. According to the Mayo Clinic, a person with heart failure may feel a rapid and/or irregular heart beat. If the heart failure is caused by a heart attack, the person will feel severe chest pain. The AHA and ACC also report that severe heart failure is associated with reduced blood pressure, due to poor performance by the heart.
Other Symptoms
There are also symptoms of end stage heart failure that do not directly involve the heart or lungs. Merck Manuals indicates that there may be some vague symptoms, such as fatigue, sleepiness, disorientation and confusion. The Mayo Clinic reports that other symptoms of heart failure include: swelling of the feet, ankles, lower legs, and/or abdomen (due to fluid build-up); diminished ability to exercise; and lack of appetite or nausea. Because symptoms are at their most severe at end stage heart failure, these symptoms may be severe and persistent, and may not respond to medical intervention. For example, medication may not be able to control swelling in different parts of the body or improve the appetite.
References
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI): What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Heart Failure?
- American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA): ACC/AHA Guidelines for the Evaluation and Management of Chronic Heart Failure in the Adult
- The Mayo Clinic: Heart Failure: Symptoms
