Left ventricular heart failure can be indicative of many signs and symptoms.If you suspect you have heart failure, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.The diagnosis can be confirmed with a physical exam, as well as blood tests and other tests.
Step 1: Shortage of breath is something to watch for.
Shortness of breath is one of the most common signs of left ventricular heart failure.Less effective blood flow throughout the body, as well as the pressure on the lungs as a result of the congestion in the heart, causes the lack of breath.It becomes worse with exertion in left ventricular heart failure.You may notice that you become short of breath faster as your ability to tolerate exercise decreases.This could be a sign of worsening heart failure.
Step 2: When you are lying down, notice your breathing patterns.
Many people with left ventricular heart failure experience increased breathlessness when they lie down."orthopnea" is a symptom.People usually sleep in a semi-upright position, with several pillows under their head or a chair, to make it easier to sleep at night.Paroxysmal dys nocturnalpnea is a symptom of left ventricular heart failure.PND is a sudden attack of breathlessness in the middle of the night that is similar to an asthma attack.These episodes are often related to the diagnosis of heart failure and can be disruptive to sleep.
Step 3: You should tell your doctor if you have a cough.
A cough is a hallmark sign of left ventricular heart failure.You can cough up fluid or blood-tinged mucus.The cough is caused by fluid in the lungs due to the pressure of the heart.With time, your cough will get worse.It won't resolve on its own, and it may be worsened by exercise.
Step 4: If you observe, you will see for "palpitations".
The sensation of being aware of your heart "doing funny things" or "fluttering" in your chest is caused by palpitations.If you are experiencing palpitations, it is important to tell your doctor.
Step 5: Take your energy level into consideration.
Left ventricular heart failure can be accompanied by fatigue and weakness.This is due to less effective flow of blood throughout your body and less efficient delivery of oxygen.It is possible that it is due to breathing challenges from the lungs.You may notice a decrease in your energy levels when doing day-to-day tasks around the house.You may feel tired, weak, and short of breath doing activities that you previously found easy if you find it difficult to walk up stairs.
Step 6: If fluid retention is a factor, look out for weight gain.
When left ventricular heart failure progresses, it can affect the right side of your heart as well.Right-sided heart failure can cause fluid retention and lead to weight gain.If you are experiencing this, you need to tell your doctor.
Step 7: You should be aware of your condition's progression.
With time, heart failure tends to get worse.It isn't a condition that gets better on its own.You may go intocompensated heart failure at some point.When your heart is no longer able to adapt to changes, your symptoms suddenly get worse.It is important to go to the Emergency Room immediately if you experience a sudden worsening of your symptoms.
Step 8: You should get a physical exam.
Your doctor will perform a physical exam after asking you about your symptoms.High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart failure.Doctors are trained to pick up the signs of heart failure by listening to your heart with a stethoscope.A high "JVP" is when your doctor observes fluid build-up in the veins of your neck, which often goes hand-in-hand with heart failure and similar conditions.There is a build up in your legs.When your doctor listens with a stethoscope, it may indicate fluid in the lungs.
Step 9: A blood test is necessary.
A blood test is one of the things your doctor will look at when evaluating heart failure.If elevated, the "BNP" test has a strong correlation to heart failure.A blood test can be used to rule out other conditions.
Step 10: Ask your doctor to do a chest x-ray.
There are signs of heart failure that can be seen on a chest x-ray.A chest x-ray can help to rule out other conditions.
Step 11: You can use an electrocardiogram.
The electrical activity of your heart is recorded in an electrocardiogram.It can detect heart attacks, which may be the underlying cause of heart failure.An arrhythmia can be ruled out with the use of an electrocardiogram.
Step 12: As necessary, receive further testing.
Your doctor may order further investigations if the diagnosis of heart failure remains uncertain after all of these initial tests.An echocardiogram can be used to determine whether the problem is systolic or diastolic.A stress test and a coronary angiogram.
Step 13: It's possible to quit smoking.
If you smoke, quitting is one of the ways to reduce your risk of heart disease.If you want to quit smoking, your doctor can help you by giving you drugs and/or nicotine replacement therapies.
Step 14: Your weight should be monitored.
Being overweight is a major risk factor for various types of heart disease.Talking to your doctor about an exercise plan that is safe for you is one of the strategies you can try for prevention of heart disease if you are overweight.A heart-healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.In addition to your choice of foods, your quantity of food intake is also important.Ask your doctor how many calories someone with your body type should be consuming daily, and use this as a guideline to monitor your daily intake.
Step 15: Reduce your cardiovascular risk factors.
There are many conditions that affect heart health.It is possible to prevent left ventricular heart failure if you identify and treat any of these.Diabetes can be treated with medications such as Metformin or Insulin, which can increase your risk of heart disease.High blood pressure can be treated with medications.High cholesterol can be lowered through diet and exercise.Taking medication such as Atorvastatin can help reduce it.
Step 16: There is a problem
It is best to meet with your doctor to discuss your treatment options.Open heart surgery is one of the most common treatment options for heart failure.