Swelling or pain in the abdomen

Swelling or pain in the upper abdomen (stomach area) can occur due to fluid build-up (congestion) in the body, which frequently is a symptom of worsening heart failure. The discomfort is due to fluid retention and congestion in the liver and gut. Some people who develop swelling in their abdomen notice that their clothes feel tighter. You should discuss this condition with your doctor or nurse. You may need to adjust your diuretic medication, especially if you have noticed weight gain. It may become necessary to pay particular attention to the amount of fluids you are drinking or the amount of salt you are consuming.

If your doctor or nurse has discussed with you how to adjust your diuretic medication then you should do this if you notice swelling in your abdomen, especially if you have noticed weight gain. Otherwise, call your doctor or nurse for assistance.

ESC Guidelines for Heart Failure

What patients need to know

This guide for patients from the European Society of Cardiology aims to provide an overview of the latest evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure.

In particular, it should help patients to understand the:

  • main types of heart failure
  • medicines used to treat heart failure
  • devices that may be appropriate
  • importance of rehabilitation
  • management by a multidisciplinary team
  • importance of self-care in managing your own condition

Learn more

AN ANIMATED JOURNEY THROUGH HEART FAILURE

A series of 9 simple, captivating animations explaining heart failure and its treatment.

These narrated animations explain how a healthy heart works, what happens to it in heart failure and how various treatments work to improve your health.

PATIENT AND CAREGIVERS VIDEOS

In this section you can watch, listen or read interviews with other people with heart failure and their caregivers.

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

and share your own views and experiences with other patients, families and caregivers.

heartfailurematters.org is a European Society of Cardiology website

The heartfailurematters.org website was developed under the direction of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). The ESC is a world leader in the discovery and dissemination of best practices in cardiovascular medicine. Our members and decision-makers are healthcare professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to represent professionals in the field of cardiology in Europe and beyond.

Back to top