A lot of individuals often mistake heart failure symptoms as a result of growing older. But in reality, what’s happening is that their heart is getting weaker and they don’t even realize it. Without proper care, heart failure can lead to cardiac arrest.

Know your F.A.C.E.S.

To help both doctors and patients quickly recognize the symptoms of heart failure, the Heart Failure Society of America created a simple acronym called “FACES.”

F = Fatigue. When the heart can’t pump enough oxygen-rich blood to meet the body’s energy needs, a general feeling of tiredness or fatigue sets in.

A = Activity limitation. People with heart failure are often unable to do their normal activities because they become easily tired and short of breath.

C = Congestion. Fluid buildup in the lungs can result in coughing, wheezing, and breathing difficulty.

E = Edema or ankle swelling. When the heart doesn’t have enough pumping power to force used blood back up from the lower extremities, fluid can collect in the ankles, legs, thighs, and abdomen. Excess fluid can also cause rapid weight gain.