A doctor has warned that regularly waking in the middle of the night feeling breathless could be a sign of heart failure. NHS medic Suraj Kukadia, known as Dr Sooj online, said many people mistakenly believe heart failure means death, but it is a manageable condition where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently.
In a TikTok video, Dr Kukadia highlighted key symptoms including breathlessness during exercise or at rest, as well as when lying flat. He explained that some patients wake up 'in a huff and a puff' due to fluid buildup. Another indicator is swelling in the ankles or legs, known as pitting oedema, where pressing the skin leaves an indentation.
The NHS lists breathlessness after activity or at rest as a main symptom of heart failure. Dr Kukadia cautioned that these signs can also occur in other conditions or even as a normal variation, such as swollen ankles in hot weather. He advised younger, fit individuals not to panic but to consult a GP if symptoms persist.
Heart failure may develop suddenly or gradually over months. The NHS urges people to call 999 or visit A&E if they experience sudden or severe symptoms. Other possible signs include a persistent cough, fast heart rate, and dizziness. Early diagnosis allows for better management of the condition.
