General Health

Can you identify the signs of heart failure?

02/06/2014
A recent survey shows that 20% of Europeans will experience heart failure. Just 5% of Brits would be able to identify symptoms. Are you one of them?

Heart failure is not an exact term. It in general covers situation when the heart is not pumping blood into your body properly.

Each heartbeat has set amount of blood that it should distribute. If the amount of blood is smaller we speak about heart failure. Depending on which phase of the heartbeat failure happens there can be:

  • Diastolic heart failure when the heart does not fill up with blood sufficiently when the heart rests in between each heartbeat
  • Systolic heart failure when the heart does not pump the sufficient amount of blood out.
  • Combination of both above

The symptoms of heart failure could very vary from mild to more severe and can include:

  • Breathlessness
  • Swollen ankles and legs
  • Enlarged liver
  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling sick
  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite

If you suffer from one or combination of these symptoms you need to consult a GP.  Our experienced GPs are here for you at the time that suits you. Give us a call or benefit from our walk-in service.

exclamationIMPORTANT: Heart failure is different to cardiac emergency / heart attack. Dial immediately 999 if you suspect that you or someone around you may have a heart attack. Symptoms include:

  • Chest pain (usually on the center of your chest)
  • Pain in the other parts of the body
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling sick
  • Being sick
  • An overwhelming sense of anxiety
  • Feeling light headed
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing

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