The three “C’s” and what warning signs you should know: Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Shortness of breath (dyspnea) related to blood “backing up” into the pulmonary veins, causing fluid to leak into the lungs. Persistent coughing or wheezing; coughing that produces white or pink blood-tinged sputum. Buildup of excess fluid in body tissues (edema) related to blood flow out of the heart slowing down and blood returning to the heart through veins backs up and causes fluid to go to the tissues. Tiredness and fatigue related to the heart being unable to pump enough blood to meet the needs of the body tissues. Lack of appetite and nausea related to the digestive system receiving less blood. Confusion and changes in thinking ability related to changing levels of electrolytes in the blood, in particular sodium. Increased heart rate in order to try to make up for the loss of pumping capacity of the heart. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Chest discomfort usually involving the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or that may go away and come back again.  It can often feel like a pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain. Discomfort in other areas of the upper body including pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach. Shortness of breath which may occur with or without chest discomfort. Other signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. Remember:  Although both men and women most commonly experience symptoms as chest pain and discomfort, women are more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain. Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA or STROKE) Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body. Sudden confusion, usually with difficulty understanding or speaking. Sudden trouble with eyesight. Sudden dizziness, difficulty walking and loss of coordination or balance. Sudden severe headache with no known cause. Remember to contact your Emergency Medical Service (EMS or 911) if you or a loved one suffer from any of these symptoms. Be sure to talk with your doctor about these common illnesses and make sure to have regular check ups in order to prevent complications with any of your ailments.