A heart cough, also known as a cardiac cough, is a cough resulting from fluid buildup in the lungs due to heart failure. This fluid accumulation, called pulmonary edema, is a consequence of the heart's inability to effectively pump blood, leading to fluid back-up in the circulatory system. The body attempts to expel this excess fluid through coughing.
Understanding the Connection Between Heart Failure and Cough
Heart failure weakens the heart muscle's ability to pump blood efficiently. This impairment causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs, triggering a cough. The cough may be persistent and can worsen at night. In some cases, the cough may produce white or pink, blood-tinged mucus. This is a serious symptom and requires immediate medical attention.
Key Characteristics of a Cardiac Cough:
- Persistent: The cough doesn't easily resolve with over-the-counter remedies.
- Worse at night: Fluid tends to pool in the lungs when lying down.
- Potential for blood-tinged mucus: Indicates a more severe condition.
Causes:
The primary cause is pulmonary edema resulting from heart failure. This is often linked to:
- Weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy)
- High blood pressure
- Valve problems within the heart
- Congestive heart failure
When to Seek Medical Attention:
A persistent cough, especially one accompanied by other heart failure symptoms (shortness of breath, swelling in the legs and ankles, fatigue), warrants immediate medical evaluation. A cardiologist can properly diagnose and treat the underlying heart condition causing the cough. Ignoring a cardiac cough can lead to serious health consequences.
Treatment:
Treatment focuses on managing the underlying heart condition. This may include medications to improve heart function, reduce fluid retention, and manage blood pressure.
