There are an estimated 56.2 million people across the world with a new diagnosis of heart failure every year. According to experts, heart failure happens when your heart becomes less able to pump blood, and the changes may become noticeable over time.

Also known as congestive heart failure – this is a condition that develops when your heart is not able to fill up with enough blood and becomes too weak to pump properly.

Doctors say it is important that you spot the symptoms as early as possible as it can lead to serious complications like blood clots – which can cause serious and life-threatening strokes or pulmonary embolism - a blockage in a lung artery. A few of such symptoms you must take note, of include:

Many people who develop heart issues will experience fluid buildup in the lungs which can make it hard to breathe when lying down – especially flat. And so, if you have to prop yourself up on pillows while you sleep, or wake up short of breath, immediately see your doctor and get the necessary tests done.

If you have been experiencing persistent wheezing, especially when you lie in bed, it could be due to heart failure which causes fluid to build up in the lungs.

Also known as pulmonary edema, the condition also collects fluid in and around the airways, which causes breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing similar to the symptoms of asthma.

Whenever you finish your day and lie down to relax, you will notice swelling in your legs and ankles, if you have a heart issue. According to experts, when your heart stops working in optimum condition, the blood flow slows and backs up in the veins in your legs – causing the fluid to build up in your tissues. You may also have swelling in your stomach or notice some weight gain.

Even though it may sound strange, weight gain happens when there is heart trouble that you may be facing. Doctors say one reason for that could be the extra fluid in your body which causes rapid weight gain and swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs, even around the stomach. Fluid can also build up in the lungs, which can cause breathlessness.

According to experts, you must quit smoking and tobacco which can significantly improve your health.

Reducing the saturated fat in your diet or replacing animal fats with vegetable fats can help you shed unwanted pounds. It is good for your arteries even if you are not overweight.

Regular exercise for at least 30 minutes daily helps increase your heart rate at least three to four times every week. You can choose a brisk walk with a friend, a swim in a lake, or a morning bike ride.

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