What You Need To Know About Heart Failure

We all want to live and continue to do the things we do on a daily basis. However, not all of us practice healthy living like we should. Living a healthy life requires us to keep fit and eat healthy. Although this is easier said than done, it should be looked upon as a challenge rather than an obstacle. If you suffer from heart disease or any heart condition, then you would know how difficult it is to have the best quality of life you want. For those who are curious about heart failure, its symptoms, and what to do to avoid it, read through this article.

What is heart failure?

Heart failure, or congestive heart failure (CHF) is a health condition that prevents the heart from distributing blood throughout the body in a normal or sufficient manner. Heart failure should be looked upon as a serious condition, as it is linked with an annual mortality rate of 10 percent and is the major cause of hospitalization in individuals over the age of 65.

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

Symptoms associated with heart failure are tiredness and fatigue, asthma, shortness of breath from physical activity or even while resting, swelling, enlargement of the heart, and blueness of the skin. Symptoms depend on which area of the heart is affected.

What are the causes of heart failure?

There are many causes for heart failure, not just one. The major causes of heart failure are hardening of the arteries and untreated high blood pressure. The list of causes continues with disease of the heart valves and a weakened heart muscle triggered by toxins and/or viral infections.

How is heart failure diagnosed?

Your doctor will first analyze your medical history, conduct a series of physical exams, and do final tests. Your medical history may include a history of other health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease. You may also be asked if you smoke, drink alcohol, and take medications. A physical exam involves your doctor listening to your heart while searching for signs and underlying causes of heart failure or a weakened heart. Final tests include blood tests, B-type Natriuretic Peptide blood tests, chest X-rays, Echocardiogram, Ejection fraction, and Electrocardiogram.

What are treatments for heart failure?

The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and slow down the development of the condition, decrease the amount of time spent in the hospital, and improve overall quality of life.

Drugs that treat heart failure include angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics and beta blockers. Surgery is another option in some cases, where the valve is repaired or replaced, coronary artery bypass surgery is conducted, or transplantation is performed.

What preventive measures can be taken?

To prevent heart failure, make lifestyle changes. Lower down your risk by quitting smoking, controlling your blood pressure, controlling diabetes, lowering your cholesterol, limiting your alcohol intake, and increasing healthy activity such as exercise, proper diet and getting enough rest. It’s always best to consult with a health care professional to get proper medical advice.