What should you know about left sided heart failure symptoms?

The left side of the heart sends oxygen-rich blood around the body. When it cannot pump effectively, pressure may build behind it and fluid can collect in the lungs. This can cause breathlessness during activity, waking at night short of breath, or needing extra pillows. A persistent cough, reduced stamina and fatigue can also occur. Swollen ankles may appear when fluid builds up more broadly. These symptoms can have other causes, including lung conditions, anaemia or an abnormal heart rhythm, so symptoms alone do not confirm heart failure.

Arrange a clinical review for ongoing breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance, ankle swelling or a cough that does not settle. Note when symptoms began, what activity brings them on, whether they change when you lie down, and any recent weight or medication changes. A clinician may check your heart and lungs, blood pressure, oxygen level and heart rhythm, then decide whether blood tests, an electrocardiogram or imaging is needed. Do not stop prescribed medicines without advice. Managing conditions such as hypertension or atrial fibrillation may form part of the assessment.

Seek emergency help for severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness, breathing difficulty at rest, fainting, new confusion, blue or grey lips, or chest pressure that does not ease. Urgent assessment is also needed if you cough up pink or frothy fluid or cannot speak comfortably because of breathlessness. Sit upright while waiting for help and take your medicine list with you. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or severely short of breath.

Could my breathlessness be related to heart failure or another condition? Which symptoms should I record at home? Do I need a heart rhythm check or an echocardiogram? How should I respond if ankle swelling or night-time breathlessness increases?