What is Heart Failure?
Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure (CHF), is a chronic condition in which the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently is weakened. As a result, blood may back up in the lungs and other parts of the body, leading to fluid retention, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
Types of Heart Failure:
- Left-sided heart failure: The left ventricle fails to pump blood effectively, causing fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Right-sided heart failure: The right ventricle struggles to push blood into the lungs, leading to fluid buildup in the legs, abdomen, and liver.
- Congestive heart failure (CHF): A severe form where fluid accumulates throughout the body.
Early detection and proper management can slow the progression of heart failure and improve overall heart function.
Common Symptoms of Heart Failure
Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly in acute cases.
Primary Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea), especially during activity or while lying down.
- Fatigue and weakness, making daily activities difficult.
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet due to fluid retention.
- Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink-tinged phlegm.
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
- Sudden weight gain from fluid buildup.
- Loss of appetite or nausea.
- Difficulty concentrating (brain fog).
Seek medical attention if you experience worsening symptoms or severe shortness of breath, as this could indicate a medical emergency.
Causes & Risk Factors
Several conditions can weaken the heart and increase the risk of heart failure.
Major Causes:
Treatment Options
Heart failure treatment focuses on managing symptoms, slowing progression, and improving quality of life.
1. Medications
- ACE inhibitors & ARBs: Help relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
- Beta-blockers: Reduce heart rate and workload.
- Diuretics: Remove excess fluid from the body to relieve swelling.
2. Lifestyle Changes
- Low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention.
- Regular exercise (as recommended by a doctor).
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
3. Medical Devices & Surgical Options
- Pacemakers & implantable defibrillators (ICDs) to regulate heartbeat.
- Heart transplant for end-stage heart failure.
Prevention Strategies
Adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart failure.
1. Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet
- Eat lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Reduce sodium, processed foods, and sugary beverages.
- Increase fruit, vegetable, and fiber intake.
2. Exercise Regularly
- Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
- Include strength training and cardiovascular activities.
3. Manage Underlying Conditions
- Control high blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Monitor diabetes and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
4. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
- Smoking increases heart disease risk.
- Limit alcohol to one drink per day for women, two for men.
Resources for More Information