Heart Failure

What is heart failure?

Heart failure is a medical condition in which the heart becomes unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. Despite the name, it does not mean that the heart has stopped working, but rather that its ability to pump blood efficiently is compromised. As a result, the body may not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to various symptoms and potential complications

What causes heart failure?

Heart failure can have several underlying causes, which can include:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD): Blockages in the coronary arteries can lead to reduced blood flow and damage to the heart muscle.

• Heart attack: A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden blockage of blood flow to a part of the heart muscle, leading to damage and weakening of the heart.

• High blood pressure (hypertension): Persistent high blood pressure puts extra strain on the heart, leading to its weakening over time.

• Cardiomyopathy: This term refers to primary diseases of the heart muscle that can affect its ability to pump effectively.

• Heart valve problems: Issues with heart valves can disrupt blood flow and strain the heart.

• Congenital heart defects: Structural abnormalities present at birth can impact the heart's function and lead to heart failure later in life.

• Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms can cause the heart to pump inefficiently and contribute to heart failure.

• Chronic conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, kidney disease, and lung diseases can also contribute to heart failure

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What are the symptoms of heart failure?

The symptoms of heart failure can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but they may include:

• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or while lying flat.

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even with minimal exertion.

• Swelling (edema): Accumulation of fluid, leading to swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen.

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat: Palpitations or a sensation of the heart racing or fluttering.

• Persistent cough or wheezing: Fluid accumulation in the lungs can cause coughing or wheezing.

• Reduced exercise tolerance: Inability to perform activities that were previously manageable.

• Weight gain: Due to fluid retention

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What treatments are available for heart failure?

The treatment of heart failure aims to improve symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance the individual's quality of life. 

 

Treatment options may include:

• Lifestyle changes: Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol intake, can be beneficial.

• Medications: Various medications are used to manage heart failure, including ACE/ARB/ARNI, SGLT2 inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, and others, to control blood pressure, reduce fluid retention and improve heart function.

• Implantable devices: Devices like cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) may be used in specific cases to improve heart function and prevent life-threatening arrhythmias.

• Heart failure management programs: These programs offer education and support to help individuals manage their condition effectively.

• Heart transplant: In severe cases of heart failure, a heart transplant may be considered for eligible candidates.

• Ventricular assist devices (VADs): These mechanical devices can be used to support heart function while awaiting a heart transplant or in certain cases as a long-term treatment option.

 

The treatment plan for heart failure will be individualised based on the underlying cause, the severity of the condition, and the overall health of the patient. Regular medical follow-ups and close monitoring are crucial for managing heart failure effectively and reducing the risk of complications.