General Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

The symptoms of congestive heart failure depend on its severity. However, patients with this medical condition generally suffer from low energy or fatigue, sweating, pallor and altered consciousness. Poor growth and syncope are also some of the common signs of this condition. Moreover, those who have this disease can experience dizziness and cool extremities.

It is important not to confuse congestive heart failure with other cardiac disease symptoms.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure in the Fetus

Congestive heart failure is one of the medical conditions that can threaten the fetus. Some of the symptoms include anemia, arrhythmias and myocarditis. One of the indications that this condition is progressing is the development of atrioventricular valve regurgitation.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure in Infants

Infants with congestive heart failure may experience retractions or respiratory distress. Other general symptoms that can be observed are difficulty with feeding, low energy and pallor. Babies who have left-sided venous congestion can suffer from tachypnea and grunting. Additionally, pulmonary edema and rales are common manifestations of this medical condition.

On the other hand, infants who are suffering from a right-sided venous congestion can experience hepatosplenomegaly, ascites and edema. Aside from these symptoms, they may have pleural effusion and jugular venous distension. In severe cases, infants with this condition can also have hepatic and renal failure.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure in Older Children

Older children with congestive heart failure may manifest any of the symptoms associated with cardiac rhythm disorders like tachycardia and sinus node dysfunction. In addition, they can also suffer from anemia, sepsis and complex cardiac lesions. In severe situations, patients can suffer from complications like dilated cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, ischemia and malnutrition.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure in Adolescents and Adults

Adolescents and adults suffering from congestive heart failure may experience shortness of breath or dyspnea. Associated with this symptom are pleural effusion and orthopnea. Swelling and fluid retention are also signs of this medical condition. Lastly, patients with this disease are unable to do ordinary activities like vacuuming and sweeping.

More Points on Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure is common among adults in their late 70s and early 80s. However, it can also affect infants, children and adolescents. It can be caused by different factors such as complete heart block or bradyarrythmia. Other causes of this medical condition include tachycardia, myocardial dysfunction and structural heart disease. In order to prevent this condition from progressing, it is important to know the early signs of this illness. Additionally, at the onset of the symptoms of congestive heart failure, patients are advised to seek immediate medical help so that they can receive proper treatments.