Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. It doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working but rather that it’s functioning less efficiently. Recognizing the symptoms early can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and quality of life. Common Symptoms of Heart Failure Heart failure can affect the left side, right side, or both sides of the heart. Symptoms may develop suddenly (acute) or gradually over time (chronic). Here are the most common signs to watch for: 1. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea) Occurs during physical activity, while resting, or when lying flat. May wake you up at night gasping for air. Often due to fluid backing up in the lungs (pulmonary congestion). 2. Fatigue and Weakness Reduced blood flow can leave muscles and organs under-supplied with oxygen and nutrients. May feel tired even after adequate rest. 3. Swelling (Edema) Fluid buildup causes swelling ...