Home What are the symptoms of HF? When should I call my doctor or visit the emergency room?

When should I call my doctor or visit the emergency room?

Its important to know what to do when you notice serious heart failure symptoms. Post the following information near the phone or in a place where you can get to it easily.

Call 911 for urgent help if you have

  • new chest pain or discomfort for more than 15 minutes that does not ease up with rest or nitroglycerin
  • fast or irregular heartbeat that doesnt go away and causes dizziness or lightheadedness
  • coughing that produces frothy or pink sputum
  • severe shortness of breath that doesnt ease up
  • a feeling that you may faint

Call your clinician immediately if you experience

  • new or increased shortness of breath while resting
  • weight gain of 2 pounds or more over two days or 5 pounds in a week
  • breathing problems that interfere with sleep, such as waking up suddenly short of breath
  • inability to lie flat
  • the need to sleep sitting up or with more pillows than normal
  • lightheadedness or the feeling that you may pass out.