Congestive heart failure, or heart failure, is a chronic condition that can occur in both children and adults when your heart cannot pump enough blood to support your body. Many conditions, such as congenital defects or high blood pressure can cause heart failure. While some of these conditions cannot be cured, many can be managed with medical care and lifestyle changes.
Learn more about congestive heart failure treatments offered by Novant Health UVA Health System.
Symptoms of congestive heart failure can include:
- Shortness of breath during exertion or when you lie down
- Fatigue or feeling weak
- Swelling of your legs, ankles or feet
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty exercising
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Increased urge to urinate at night
- Swelling of your abdomen
- Sudden weight gain or fluid retention
- Lack of appetite and nausea
- Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness
- Sudden, severe shortness of breath
- Coughing up pink, foamy mucus
- Chest pain if your heart failure is caused by a heart attack
If you think you have symptoms of heart failure, please contact your Novant Health UVA Health System provider to schedule an appointment.