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Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

by Michelle Badash, MS

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition that is usually the result of other underlying conditions. It is important to diagnose the underlying cause, so that the proper treatment can be given.

Swollen Feet

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There are not always noticeable symptoms for CHF as it develops. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Shortness of breath, especially with activity, or when lying down
• Swelling of feet and ankles
• Fatigue and weakness
• Persistent cough or wheezing cough that may be accompanied by white or blood-tinged phlegm
• Rapid weight gain
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat
• Change in urine production (increase or decrease, need to urinate at night)
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Decreased alertness

SOURCES:

American Heart Association

Harrison�s Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed. McGraw-Hill;2001.

Last reviewed December 2003 by Rhonda Kaufman, MD

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