Your legs feel thicker, jeans snugger, despite no diet change. Susan, 57, gained 5 pounds in her lower limbs, puzzled until CHF was flagged. Fluid retention can add weight fast, studies show, in 60% of cases. Track sudden gains. Feeling heavier? This one’s a texture shift.
4. Pitting Edema: Dents That Stay
Press your shin, and the dent lingers, like soft dough. David, 54, noticed this after long days, thinking it was normal swelling. CHF’s fluid buildup causes pitting edema, research confirms, in over half of patients. Elevate and watch. Dents lasting? The next one’s a mobility clue.
3. Stiffness Limiting Movement
Your legs resist bending, like rusty hinges, slowing your stride. Anna, 61, struggled with stiff knees, blaming arthritis. CHF’s fluid can stiffen joints, studies suggest, impacting 1 in 3 patients. Gentle stretches might ease it. Movement sluggish? This one’s a nighttime nudge.
2. Nighttime Leg Discomfort
Restless legs keep you awake, urging you to move. Rachel, 56, tossed nightly, thinking it was stress. CHF’s poor circulation can worsen at night, per research, affecting 25% of patients. Elevating legs might calm it. Can’t sleep? The final sign’s a critical cue.
1. Ulcers or Sores That Won’t Heal
Small sores on your feet linger, refusing to heal, like stubborn wounds. Paul, 59, ignored one until CHF was diagnosed. Poor blood flow can cause ulcers, studies warn, in advanced cases. Immediate care is key. Sores persisting? It’s time to act.
