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Heart failure

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What is heart failure?

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently to meet the body’s needs. This can result from various heart conditions and leads to symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.

What are the main types of heart failure?

  • Left-sided Heart Failure: The left side of the heart is weakened, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary congestion). This can be further classified into:
    • Systolic Heart Failure (HFrEF): Reduced ejection fraction, where the heart muscle does not contract effectively.
    • Diastolic Heart Failure (HFpEF): Preserved ejection fraction, where the heart muscle is stiff and does not relax properly.
  • Right-sided Heart Failure: The right side of the heart is weakened, leading to fluid buildup in the body’s extremities, such as the legs and abdomen.
  • Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): A term that often encompasses both left-sided and right-sided heart failure and emphasizes the symptoms of fluid buildup.

What causes heart failure?

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to blocked arteries.
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Overworks the heart muscle and leads to heart damage.
  • Heart Attack: Can damage heart muscle and reduce pumping ability.
  • Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle that affect its function.
  • Valvular Heart Disease: Problems with the heart valves that disrupt normal blood flow.
  • Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that affect heart function.

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen (edema)
  • Persistent cough or wheezing
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty sleeping due to shortness of breath

How is heart failure diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

  • Medical History and Physical Exam: Assessment of symptoms and physical signs.
  • Blood Tests: To check for biomarkers such as B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP).
  • Imaging Tests: Such as chest X-rays or echocardiograms to evaluate heart structure and function.
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): To detect heart rhythm abnormalities.
  • Stress Testing: To assess heart function during exercise.

What treatments are available for heart failure?

Treatment strategies may include:

  • Medications:
    • Diuretics: To reduce fluid buildup.
    • ACE Inhibitors/ARBs: To lower blood pressure and reduce heart workload.
    • Beta-Blockers: To improve heart function and reduce symptoms.
    • Aldosterone Antagonists: To reduce fluid retention and improve heart function.
    • Digitalis: To help the heart pump more effectively.
  • Lifestyle Changes:
    • Diet: Low-sodium diet to reduce fluid buildup.
    • Exercise: Regular, moderate physical activity as advised.
    • Weight Management: To avoid excessive fluid retention.
  • Medical Devices:
    • Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): To monitor and correct abnormal heart rhythms.
    • Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT): To improve heart pumping efficiency.
  • Surgical Options:
    • Valve Repair or Replacement: If valve disease is present.
    • Heart Transplant: For severe cases where other treatments have failed.

What lifestyle changes can help manage heart failure?

  • Monitor Weight: Regularly to detect fluid buildup early.
  • Limit Salt Intake: To reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure.
  • Exercise Regularly: As recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Avoid Alcohol and Smoking: To reduce heart strain and improve overall health.
  • Adhere to Medication: Take medications exactly as prescribed.

What are the potential complications of heart failure?

  • Kidney Damage: Due to reduced blood flow.
  • Liver Damage: From fluid buildup.
  • Pulmonary Edema: Severe fluid accumulation in the lungs.
  • Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats that can worsen heart failure or lead to sudden cardiac events.

How can heart failure be managed long-term?

Long-term management involves:

  • Regular Monitoring: Frequent follow-ups with healthcare providers to assess heart function and adjust treatment.
  • Medication Adherence: Consistent use of prescribed medications.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle and adhering to dietary and activity recommendations.

When should I seek medical attention for heart failure?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Sudden or worsening shortness of breath
  • Severe swelling or sudden weight gain
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Confusion or severe fatigue