Heart Failure
About This Condition
Heart failure is a term to describe the heart's poor ability to pump blood efficiently. Heart failure is mainly due to the weakening of the heart muscle.
However, a stiffened heart muscle can contribute to this as well. Also called congestive heart failure, the condition does not suggest a complete failure of the heart muscle, just limited capacity to support the flow of blood. While the condition sounds severe, medical interventions can improve the heart's function and help patients live longer.
Symptoms
- Out of breath often
- Tiredness
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Coughing
- Rapid heartbeat
Causes
Heart failure can arise for a number of reasons related to the build-up of harmful fat and cholesterol in the coronary arteries, high blood pressure, arrhythmia, heart valve disease and cardiomyopathy.
Diagnosis
A blood test can be ordered to check for anything detrimental in the blood that could signify heart failure. Furthermore, Dr Hassen can conduct an electrocardiogram or echocardiogram to check for any abnormal electrical activity or structural abnormalities affecting the heart.
Treatment
Dr Hassen can attempt to treat the condition conservatively by prescribing medication and discussing critical lifestyle changes. A pacemaker can be fitted to regulate a slow heartbeat. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator is suggested for patients at risk of heart arrhythmia. Alternatively, surgical intervention helps treat the condition causing heart failures, such as heart valve replacement, coronary angioplasty or heart transplant surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any way of recovering from heart failure?
Heart failure can progressively get worse without treatment. However, several treatments (surgeries and angioplasty) can prevent the gradual decline of heart failure.
What lifestyle changes should I make?
You need to modify your everyday activities, so you do not strain the heart further. Furthermore, a diet low in sodium and fat is important in maintaining a healthy heart. Also, try to lose weight because it is important not to put further strain on the heart.
Related Conditions
Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is plaque build-up in the coronary arteries, the arteries that supply blood to the heart and its coverings. Plaque is predominately fat from saturated products and choline - a nutrient traced in red meat, dairy and eggs.
Irregular Heartbeat (Arrhythmia)
An irregular heartbeat is what many doctors refer to as arrhythmia. Arrhythmia is inconsistent beating or fluttering of the heart muscle.
Valvular Heart Disease
Valvular heart disease arises from damage to the heart's valves. The heart consists of four valves that maintain the steady flow of blood.
Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease is an abnormality affecting the heart which is present at birth. This congenital abnormality can affect the heart's valves, walls and blood vessels.
Medical Conditions Affecting the Heart
Heart disease refers to a collection of heart-related disorders affecting the performance of the heart muscle. Coronary artery disease is the most common medical condition affecting people worldwide. A high fat and cholesterol diet contributes to the development of coronary artery disease when the coronary arteries begin to narrow and restrict the flow of blood.
Related Procedures
Coronary Angiogram
A coronary angiogram utilises x-ray imaging to view the heart's blood vessels in detail. The test is designed to check for obstructions in the coronary arteries, limiting blood flow to the heart.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a procedure to reopen a blocked coronary artery. Fat and harmful cholesterol can get stuck in the coronary arteries and prevent smooth blood flow throughout the body.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a detailed scan used to analyse the heart and blood vessels. An ultrasound probe emits high-powered sound waves that produce echoes as the sound waves bounce against parts of the body.
Transoesophageal Echocardiogram
A transoesophageal echocardiogram is a test used to assess the heart's structure and function. Similar to a small microphone, a transducer emits high-powered ultrasound waves that penetrate the skin, bodily tissues and heart muscle.
Electrical Cardioversion
Electrical cardioversion is a quick and efficient procedure that corrects the irregular rhythm of the heart. A machine and adhesive patches (electrodes) deliver low-dose shock energy to the chest to control an abnormal heart rhythm such as atrial flutter.
Pacemaker Implants
A pacemaker is a 20-50g device inserted in the chest to correct a very slow heartbeat. The pacemaker emits electrical impulses that control the heart, preventing an irregular heartbeat.