Heart failure means the heart is not pumping blood as effectively as the body needs. It can be a long-term condition, but it can also suddenly worsen and become a first aid emergency.
What is heart failure?
Heart failure does not mean the heart has completely stopped. It means the heart is weaker or stiffer than normal, so it cannot move blood around the body as well as it should. This can lead to fluid build-up, poor oxygen delivery, and increasing breathlessness or fatigue.
Heart failure is different from Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest.
- Heart attack is sudden damage caused by blocked blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Cardiac arrest is when the heart stops pumping blood effectively.
- Heart failure is ongoing or worsening poor pumping function.
Why it matters in first aid
A person with heart failure can become acutely unwell. They may suddenly struggle to breathe, become exhausted, confused, or develop chest pain. First aid focuses on recognising when the situation is no longer stable and getting urgent medical help early.
Common signs of worsening heart failure
Signs can include:
- shortness of breath, especially when lying flat or moving around
- fast breathing or difficulty speaking full sentences
- swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- coughing, especially at night
- pale or bluish skin
- dizziness, confusion, or feeling faint
If chest pain is part of the problem, think about Heart Attack as well.
What to do if someone with heart failure is unwell
If someone has worsening heart failure symptoms:
- Call
000if they have severe breathlessness, chest pain, blue lips, confusion, collapse, or rapidly worsening symptoms. - Help them sit upright or in the position that makes breathing easier.
- Keep them calm and loosen tight clothing if needed.
- Help them use their own prescribed medicine only if they ask for assistance and you know what they normally take.
- Keep watching their breathing and responsiveness while waiting for help.
Do not force food or drink. Do not make them lie flat if that worsens breathing.
When it becomes an immediate emergency
Urgent danger signs include:
- severe trouble breathing
- chest pain
- blue or grey lips
- new confusion
- collapse
- becoming Unresponsive
If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, follow Primary Survey or DRSABCD, then start CPR. If available, use an Automated External Defibrillator.
Heart failure, breathing, and circulation
Heart failure often shows up through worsening Breathing and poor circulation. A person may breathe faster, tire easily, or look unwell because oxygen is not being delivered efficiently. Checking how hard they are working to breathe and whether they are becoming less alert can help you decide when the problem is escalating.
Quick answer
Heart failure means the heart is not pumping blood effectively enough. If symptoms suddenly worsen, help the person sit upright, call 000 for severe breathlessness or chest pain, and be ready to start CPR if they become unresponsive and are not breathing normally.
Sources reviewed
Reviewed against current Australian cardiac, first aid and emergency guidance by the First Aid Glossary Editorial Team. This article is general information and does not replace emergency-operator directions, professional medical advice or hands-on first aid training.
