Heart Failure
Overview
Heart failure is a condition where your heart is not able to pump blood as effectively as it should. If you have it, it is important to take it seriously, as it can affect how well oxygen and nutrients are delivered throughout your body.
This does not mean your heart has stopped working. Instead, it means it is under strain and not keeping up with your body’s needs. Over time, this can lead to a build-up of fluid in the lungs, legs, or abdomen, making everyday activities more difficult.
You may notice symptoms gradually, or they may become more noticeable over time. Without proper care, heart failure can worsen. With early diagnosis, regular monitoring, and the right treatment, it can be managed effectively, helping you maintain your quality of life.
Symptoms
Symptoms can develop slowly and may become more noticeable as the condition progresses. You may experience:
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying down
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
- Swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Reduced ability to exercise or carry out daily activities
These symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go, so it is important to monitor any changes.
Causes & Risk Factors
Heart failure often develops as a result of other conditions that place strain on the heart over time. Common causes and risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease
- Previous heart attack
- Diabetes
- Heart valve disease
- Obesity or physical inactivity
- Long-term alcohol use
- Certain infections affecting the heart
These conditions can weaken or stiffen the heart, making it harder for it to pump blood effectively.
When to Seek Care
You should seek medical advice if you:
- Experience shortness of breath during routine activities
- Notice swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet
- Feel unusually tired or weak
- Have a persistent cough or wheezing
- Have a history of heart disease or related conditions
Emergency Symptoms
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Sudden or severe shortness of breath, especially at rest
- Chest pain or pressure
- Rapid worsening of swelling in your legs or abdomen
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
Prevention
While heart failure cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by managing the conditions that lead to it:
- Keep your blood pressure under control
- Manage cholesterol and blood sugar levels
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Attend regular medical check-ups
Diagnostics Used
To diagnose heart failure, your care team will assess your symptoms and evaluate how well your heart is functioning. You may have:
Support Services
Managing heart failure involves ongoing care and support. You can benefit from:
- Regular follow-up with cardiology specialists
- Medication management and monitoring
- Nutrition and fluid management guidance
- Lifestyle and activity planning
- Support for managing related conditions such as hypertension or diabetes
This approach helps you manage symptoms and maintain stability over time.