As the failure progresses the body retains more water. This results in swelling of the feet and ankles, sometimes the abdomen and thighs as well. Other symptoms include fatigue and weakness during daily activities. This is caused by a lack of oxygen to the muscles. Often restlessness and failure to sleep well are noted.
Many people sleep in an upright position because of pulmonary edema.
Another symptom associated with this disease is a persistent productive cough, often the sputum is frothy or blood tinged. Acute stages of heart failure can be treated with rest, proper diet and moderating daily activities. Digoxin is used to increase the power of each heart beat and slows a too fast rate. Irregular heart rates are controlled with medication or pacemakers. Vasodilators and ACE inhibitors are used to dilate and relax the blood vessels.