Heart failure is a global pandemic affecting at least 26 million people worldwide, and its prevalence is increasing. (Source)
signs and symptoms of heart failure and prolong life. In addition to treatment, lifestyle changes such as exercising, reducing sodium intake, managing stress and losing weight, can improve your quality of life.
Heart failure often referred to as congestive heart failure (CHF), is a medical condition which occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to maintain blood flow and to meet the body’s needs. Congestive heart failure may be caused due to certain health conditions, such as narrowed arteries in your heart or high blood pressure.
The overriding intent of this article is to provide awareness on CHF, its signs and symptoms, causes and risk factors, its treatment, and living with CHF.
Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition that gets worse with time. There are 4 heart failure stages (Stage A, B, C and D). The stages start with “high risk of developing heart failure” to “advanced heart failure”. With time, if proper treatment is not administered, the condition gets worse, your heart muscles weaken, and with that you move towards the next stage of heart failure. Once you are at that stage, reversing to the previous stage isn’t all that plausible. At this juncture, do note that congestive heart failure treatment varies from one stage to another, and may involve changes in medications, lifestyle behaviors, and cardiac devices.
Symptoms of heart failure start to appear when your heart can’t pump enough blood to the rest of your body. Sometimes, your symptoms may get worse very quickly: –
Heart failure is caused due to a range of health conditions that lead to damage of the heart muscle, including –
In case of a heart failure, there are many choices for treatment. In the initial stages, the doctor may advise medication and lifestyle changes. But, in later stages when the condition gets worse, surgery may be the best option.
Medication – Aldosterone antagonist, ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers), Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, Blood vessel dilators, ARNIs (angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors), etc.
Surgery and medical devices
one risk factor may be enough to cause a heart failure, but a combination of factors may add onto increase the risk.
The main risk factors include –
1: High blood pressure – High BP makes the heart work harder and exerts the muscles.
2: Certain medicines – Some medicines may lead to heart failure or heart problems. Medications that may increase the risk of heart problems are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain anesthesia medications, some anti-arrhythmic medications, certain medications used to treat conditions, and diseases such as high blood pressure, cancer, blood conditions, neurological conditions, psychiatric conditions, etc. However, you should discuss with your doctor before you stop taking any medications on your own.
3: Sleep apnea – Problems with breathing properly while you sleep at night can lead to low blood oxygen levels and increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms. Both of these problems can weaken the heart.
4: Viruses – A viral infection may damage the heart muscle.
5: Alcohol and tobacco use – Drinking too much alcohol or using tobacco can weaken heart muscle and lead to heart failure.
6: Obesity – Those who are obese have a higher risk of developing a heart failure.
If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of heart failure or have risk conditions, then it is very important to contact a medical practitioner at the earliest. Seek emergency treatment in case of extreme signs and symptoms, such as –
Being diagnosed with heart failure can be terrifying. But knowing about your conditions, symptoms and taking steps to manage your symptoms and keep things under control, is important. A few lifestyle changes, eating a healthy diet (avoiding the foods that increase your risk), daily exercise, and taking your medicines on time can all contribute to help you live a productive and healthy life.