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When to seek medical advice
By Mayo Clinic staffSee your doctor if you experience any of the signs or symptoms associated with heart failure. These include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea) when you exert yourself or when you lie down
- Reduced ability to exercise
- Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink blood-tinged phlegm
- Swelling in your abdomen, legs, ankles and feet
- Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness
You may first find out you have heart failure from an emergency room visit after worsening signs and symptoms. Other heart and lung problems can cause signs and symptoms that are similar to heart failure.
If you have a diagnosis of heart failure, and if any of the signs or symptoms suddenly become worse or you develop a new sign or symptom, it may mean that existing heart failure is getting worse or not responding to treatment. Contact your doctor promptly.
