Module 4 Pull Down Navigation - Select a Page to View ------------------- Introduction Taking Charge of Heart Failure Following Your Treatment Plan Barriers to Following Your Treatment Plan Overcoming Barriers to Treatment Tips for Taking All of Your Medicines as Prescribed Tips for Exercising Regularly Tips for Following Your Diet Other Tips for Following Your Treatment Plan Managing Your Symptoms Urgent Symptoms: When to Call Your Doctor of Nurse Early Symptoms of Heart Failure Tracking Your Symptoms Monitor Your Weight and Body Swelling Daily Download a Weight Chart in PDF Format Treat Weight Gain and Swelling Right Away Prevent Fatigue From Interfering with Your Life Questions to Ask Your Doctor or Nurse Other Questions and Answers About Self-Care Learn More About Heart Failure

Early Symptoms of Heart Failure

Some symptoms of heart failure are not emergencies, but they can get worse if you do not pay attention to them. Do not ignore early symptoms.

Call your doctor or nurse if you have any of the following symptoms, so they can be treated before they become urgent:

• A weight gain or loss of 2 or more pounds in 1 day or 4 pounds in 1 week.
• Swelling in the legs, feet, hands, or abdomen.
• Persistent cough or chest congestion.
• Increasing fatigue or a sudden decrease in your ability to do your usual activities.
• Loss of appetite or nausea.
• Feeling of fullness or bloating in your stomach.
• Confusion or restlessness.
• Intermittent or mild shortness of breath.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.

These symptoms are early signs that fluid is building up and that your body is producing harmful substances (stress hormones) that worsen heart failure. If you have any of these symptoms, let your doctor or nurse know. They may be able to help decrease or get rid of them. Also let your doctor or nurse know if you think your heart failure medicines are causing you to have new symptoms.