Early identification of acute heart failure: timely discovery, saving lives!
Acute heart failure is a serious heart disease characterized by the inability of the heart to effectively pump blood to meet the body ‘ s need for oxygen and nutrition. This state of affairs can quickly lead to serious health problems and even endanger lives. However, many people lack knowledge of early symptoms of acute heart failure and often ignore the warning signs of the body. Timely identification and intervention can significantly improve patient prognosis. This paper will provide detailed information on early identification methods for acute heart failure, help to increase vigilance and timely medical attention and reduce the risk of complications.
I. Common symptoms of acute heart failure
Breathe.
At an early stage of acute heart failure, many patients can feel anxious to breathe, especially when moving or lying down. This is due to the inability of the heart to effectively pump blood, which results in pulmonary fluids, thus affecting the exchange of oxygen. Respiratory difficulties may be one of the earliest symptoms, and patients should be vigilant.
Increased fatigue.
Patients may feel very tired because of the inability of the heart to provide blood effectively. Even when it comes to day-to-day activities, it may feel overwhelmed. This persistent sense of fatigue has drawn attention, especially to populations with a history of heart disease.
Oedema.
Acute heart failure results in fluid in the body in the form of an oedema of the lower limb, abdominal or lung. The edema of the lower limbs is usually reflected in swollen ankles and calves, while abdominal edema may cause abdominal swelling. If these symptoms increase suddenly, they may signal an increase in heart failure.
Heart failure.
Patients with heart failure may experience signs of increased heart rate or arrhythmia. This is due to the accelerated pumping of blood by the heart in order to sustain the blood flow. Inconsistent heart rate not only leads to discomfort, but may also cause more serious heart problems.
Cough or panting
As a result of pulmonary fluids, the patient may suffer from cough or asthma symptoms. This cough is usually dry and is accompanied by acne, especially when lying down at night. This should be done in a timely manner to assess the health of the heart and lungs.
Fuzzy or dizzy.
Heart failure can lead to a lack of blood in the brain, as well as symptoms of confusion and dizziness. This may be a sign that the heart is unable to meet the needs of the body, especially when it is more evident after standing or moving.
II. Key methods for identifying acute heart failure
Self-monitoring
Patients and their families should regularly monitor basic vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate and weight. The rapid increase in body weight (e.g., an increase of more than 2 kg over a short period of time) may suggest liquid retention and should be a cause for alarm.
Get to know the history.
People with a history of hypertension, coronary heart disease and diabetes need to maintain a high level of attention to early symptoms of acute heart failure. The medical history is an important factor in the assessment of risk, understanding one ‘ s health and helping to detect anomalies in a timely manner.
Medical consultations
Regular medical examinations and communication with doctors are essential. In the event of the above symptoms, medical treatment should be done in a timely manner and necessary examinations (e.g. electrocardiograms, ultrasound cardiac maps, etc.) should be carried out to assess the cardiac function.
Family support
Family care and support can help patients better monitor their symptoms. In daily life, family members can alert patients to changes in their body and accompany them when necessary.
III. Emergency treatment for acute heart failure
Immediate medical attention.
If he or she is found to be suffering from obvious respiratory problems, severe fatigue and oedema, he or she should be treated immediately. Early medical intervention is essential to improve the prognosis.
Stay calm.
Stay calm while waiting for an ambulance or a hospital. Patients should, as far as possible, take half-sitting, which would help to reduce respiratory difficulties and the heart burden.
Avoid violent activity.
In the case of acute heart failure symptoms, severe activity should be avoided in order to prevent aggravating circumstances. Keep quiet and reduce unnecessary physical consumption.
Summary
Early identification of acute heart failure is essential, and timely detection and intervention can significantly improve patient prognosis. By understanding common symptoms, regular self-monitoring and maintaining good communication, people can better protect their heart health. It is hoped that this paper will be shared in order to increase public awareness of acute heart failure, increase vigilance and timely access to health care and provide life security.
