congestive heart failure

does it mean ur not in a safe mode when u start coughing just every few seconds ands it is the sound of fluid do i need to go to the er and let them get some fluid off

[jrbon]

If you have a HF diagnostic, the coughing can be produced by the medication, but if you feel fluid in your lungs, it can develop a pulmonary edema very soon.

Either you go to the ER or you increase your diuretics that, I guess, you should be taking.

Jesus.

[kenkeith]

When I had congested heart failure I did not know I had fluid in my lungs.  When there is congestion from heart failure there almost always is dry cough.  Also, there is the sensation one isn't get enough air and that can cause hyperventilation and feeling of chocking....especially when is lying down...gravity has a bearing..sitting up can provide some relief...my congestion (pulmonary edema) was classified as mild.  If the condition is moderate to severe, I don't believe you would be asking whether or not to go to ER based on my experience with mild condition. I was told to weigh myself everyone mornring and if there was 3-4 pound increase to contact the doctor.  With CHF you can also have fluids in the lower extremities.

I also had shortness of breath at time of my event and heart rate of 115 at rest.  I went to ER and admitted just based on shortness of breath... when told I had had a heart attack I was shocked!...I thought it  was a repiratory problem.  It is difficult to know when one is in heart failure mode, but with a history and a continuous dry cough, CHF can't be ruled out.  Also, as stated medication can produce a cough although I have never had that experience.

Hope this provides some insight, and thanks for sharing.  If you have any further questions or comments you are welcome to respond.  Take care.

Ken