Cardiologist reveals 5 hidden signs of heart failure you might be overlooking: Unexpected weight gain to nausea

Updated on: Aug 6, 2025, 08:10:37 IST

By Krishna Pallavi Priya

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While shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat are some of the obvious signs of heart failure, there are some surprisingly hidden symptoms that you might be overlooking. (Freepik)

Cardiologist Dr Yaranov highlights 5 hidden symptoms of heart failure that people often overlook, stressing that early detection is crucial to saving lives.

Heart failure is a chronic condition that occurs when the heart muscles stop pumping blood as well as they should. In such a scenario, the blood often backs up and causes fluid buildup inside your lungs and in your legs.

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While shortness of breath, fatigue, swollen legs, and rapid heartbeat are some of the obvious signs of heart failure, there are some surprisingly hidden symptoms that you might be overlooking and that can help in early detection.

Are you missing these hidden signs of heart failure?

In an Instagram post shared on August 1, Dr Dmitry Yaranov, MD, cardiologist, discussed 5 surprising symptoms of heart failure that people generally overlook. Sharing the signs, the cardiologist wrote, “Are you missing these hidden signs of heart failure? Advice from your heart failure cardiologist: Think you know all the signs of heart failure? Think again! Here are five surprising symptoms you might be overlooking.”

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A post shared by Dmitry Yaranov, MD | Cardiologist 🫀 (@heart_transplant_doc)

1. Unexpected weight gain

Sudden increases could mean fluid buildup. Keep an eye on the scale!

2. Chronic cough or wheezing

If it’s worse when you lie down, it could be more than just a cold.

3. Nausea or loss of appetite

Feeling queasy or full for no reason? It might be related to your heart.

4. Confusion or memory issues

Trouble concentrating or remembering things? Your heart might be affecting your brain.

5. Difficulty sleeping

Waking up frequently or having restless nights? It could signal heart trouble.

Lastly, the cardiologist warned not to ignore these subtle signs. “Early detection is crucial. Talk to your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms,” he advised.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Krishna Pallavi Priya
Krishna Priya Pallavi is a journalist with over 9 years of experience, covering health, fashion, pop culture, travel, wellness, entertainment, festivals, mental health, art, decor, fitness, and sex and relationships. She is an alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Dhenkanal, and holds an undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi. Her strong academic foundation informs her analytical and detail-oriented approach to storytelling, helping her uncover stories where none seem to exist. Before joining Hindustan Times, Pallavi worked with some of India’s leading media organisations. She spent close to three years at India Today, where she honed her newsroom skills and developed a sharp editorial sensibility. She also worked for over a year and a half at Vagabomb, ScoopWhoop’s feminist digital platform, where she explored stories through a gender-sensitive, socially aware lens. Pallavi has a deep interest in global fashion trends and international fashion seasons, and enjoys interviewing celebrities and tracking pop culture movements—interests that frequently translate into engaging, reader-friendly stories. Alongside lifestyle and entertainment, she has a keen eye for impactful health and wellness journalism, regularly interacting with doctors, designers, and digital content creators to bring nuance and credibility to her work. Born and raised in Haryana, Pallavi remains deeply connected to her ancestral roots in Odisha. Her ability to spot fresh angles brings curiosity and depth to stories she pursues. When not chasing deadlines, she enjoys spending time with her dog, planning her next vacation, reading, running new trails, and discovering new destinations.Read More

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