Heart Failure 101: Symptoms and Treatment

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. It doesn’t mean that the heart has stopped working, but rather that it’s not functioning as well as it should.

Types of Heart Failure

1. Left-sided Heart Failure:

• Systolic Heart Failure: The heart muscle can’t contract vigorously, indicating a pumping problem.

• Diastolic Heart Failure: The heart muscle is stiff and doesn’t relax properly, indicating a filling problem.

1. Right-sided Heart Failure:

• Usually a result of left-sided heart failure, but it can also occur on its own due to lung diseases or other conditions.

Symptoms of Heart Failure

• Shortness of breath (dyspnea) during activities or at rest

• Persistent coughing or wheezing

• Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen

• Fatigue and weakness

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

• Reduced ability to exercise

• Increased need to urinate at night

• Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness

Treatment of Heart Failure

1. Medications:

• ACE inhibitors: Help relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.

• Beta-blockers: Reduce heart rate and blood pressure.

• Diuretics: Help reduce fluid buildup.

• Aldosterone antagonists: Help remove excess sodium.

• Digoxin: Helps the heart pump more effectively.

1. Lifestyle Changes:

• Diet: Reduce salt intake, eat heart-healthy foods.

• Exercise: Regular physical activity as advised by a healthcare provider.

• Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight.