What's Happening?
Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, a cardiologist and heart transplant surgeon, emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of heart failure, which often develop subtly and can be easily overlooked. These signs include
persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, fluid retention, coughing when lying down, shortness of breath, and sleep disturbances. Unlike acute heart attacks, heart failure progresses quietly, and early symptoms can be mistaken for fatigue, stress, or aging. Dr. Yaranov advises that recognizing these symptoms early allows for timely medical intervention, which can significantly improve long-term heart health and quality of life. He suggests lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a heart-healthy diet, monitoring weight and fluid changes, staying physically active, prioritizing quality sleep, managing stress, and seeking timely medical care to prevent heart failure or slow its progression.
Why It's Important?
Heart failure is a serious condition that affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs, abdomen, and other tissues. Early detection and management of heart failure symptoms are crucial to prevent serious complications and improve patient outcomes. By identifying subtle indicators of a struggling heart, individuals can seek medical care promptly, manage the condition effectively, and reduce the risk of serious complications. Awareness and timely intervention can significantly improve long-term heart health and quality of life, reducing the burden on healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes.
What's Next?
Individuals experiencing early signs of heart failure should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and management. Routine check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and heart function tests can detect problems before they become serious, allowing for timely treatment and better long-term outcomes. Healthcare providers may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or other interventions to manage heart failure and prevent its progression.
