Heart failure can affect different people in different ways. Symptoms can come on suddenly and be initially severe (acute heart failure) or they can appear over time and gradually get worse (chronic heart failure). Heart failure is a serious chronic condition, but it doesnt have to stop you from living. 26 million people worldwide are living with heart failure, and with the right medication and lifestyle, it can be controlled.
Key Facts
A diagnosis of heart failure can be scary for patients and their loved ones. When most people learn that they have heart failure, they are afraid that their heart is going to suddenly quit working. While a diagnosis of heart failure does mean that your heart is not pumping well, if treated, many patients can live enjoyable lives.
Heart failure is when the heart muscle either weakens and its ability to pump is reduced or when the heart muscle stiffens and cannot relax enough to fill with blood, or both. In either case, the heart is unable to get enough blood to the body.
Signs & Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Swollen Legs
- Rapid Heartbeat
Managing Heart Failure
While there is currently no cure for heart failure, patients may be able to reduce symptoms with medication(s), devices, exercise, reducing sodium, dietary changes and fluid restrictions. Also, there are now devices to help patients monitor heart failure at home. Medications commonly used to treat heart failure include ACE Inhibitors, beta blockers, ARBs and Diuretics.
In some cases, the heart rhythm is disrupted, and a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) may be implanted.
Sometimes the heart becomes too weak to pump and a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) will be implanted. This mechanical pump may be used while waiting on a heart transplant or as a device that is left in place as treatment
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- What caused my heart failure?
- How severe is my heart failure?
- What is the stage and level of my heart failure?
- What is my ejection fraction?
- What might happen if I don’t do anything about my heart failure?
- What changes should I make to diet and exercise routines?
- Are there medications I can take to help me feel better?
- What treatment options are available for me with the risks and benefits of each option?
- How can I monitor my heart failure?
- Can I monitor at home?