Shortness of breath progresses gradually. At first, you feel short of breath when you're exerting yourself by walking or climbing stairs.
POINT2
After a while, you develop paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND). Breathing becomes difficult 1-2 hours after you go to bed, and sitting up brings relief.
POINT3
You then develop orthopnea, meaning lying down is even more difficult and sitting up is more comfortable. When this happens, you need to see your doctor as soon as possible.
Swelling
POINT1
Swelling needs to be checked every day. Get into the habit of checking each morning when you get up by pressing your shins with your fingers.
POINT2
Bedridden patients who normally spend their days lying down will develop swelling on their back. Every day you should check your sacrum, a bone located at the bottom of the spine. If checking for swelling leaves indentations where you pressed, you need to see your doctor immediately.
POINT3
Increased body weight is also a sign of swelling. If your weight increases 2-3kg or more in a week, you probably have swelling. It is important to be aware of swelling and changes in your body weight.
Lethargy
POINT1
Pay close attention to sluggishness, too.
POINT2
If you feel lethargic and have no desire to do anything - in other words, you don't want to move, have no appetite, or feel bloated - be aware you might have worsening heart failure, and must be seen by your doctor.
