Heart Failure

Heart failure occurs when the heart doesn't pump as much blood as the body needs. Failure doesn't mean that the heart has stopped pumping but rather that it is failing to pump as effectively as it should. Heart failure can be caused by several different diseases that damage the heart and its ability to pump.

When you heart does not pump effectively, blood starts to back up in the viens leading to your heart. This causes fluid to build up in your lungs and other parts of the body.

Risk factors and causes

Heart failure is the result of another disease. Any risk factors that contribute to the development of that underlying disease (most commonly coronary artery disease and heart attack) are risk factors for heart failure. Heart valve disease, alcohol abuse, and diabetes are other risk factors.

Prevention & Planning Ahead

The best way to prevent heart failure is to lower your risk by changing your lifestyle. Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regimen (with doctor's supervision), healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. If you have had coronary artery disease or a heart attack, see your doctor regularly and follow his/her orders.

Symptoms

The earliest and most common symptoms develop when blood backs up in the lungs and fluid builds up in the body. Typical symptoms include: shortness of breath, persistent coughing or wheezing, build up of excess fluid in the body tissues, and lack of appetite.

Diagnosis

To diagnose heart failure your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, ask you about your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may order a chest x-ray and/or echocardiogram.

Intervention/Treatment

Treatment for heart failure depends on the caused of your heart failure, the type of heart failure, how serious your symptoms are, and how well your body is able to compensate. Diet and lifestyle changes- including limiting salt intake and careful use of medications- are important to control heart failure and prevent complications, hospitalization and death. Surgical treatment, such as coronary artery bypass surgery and heart transplants may be recommended.

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