Heart Failure: An Explanation
Heart failure, a potentially life-threatening condition, can arise from untreated heart problems. It leads to congestive heart failure (CHF), a term that emphasises the congestion caused by a backup of blood flow, resulting in fluid retention, swelling, and pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs).
The early stages of heart failure may not present obvious symptoms, with some individuals experiencing vague or quiet signs that come on gradually, making it challenging to identify a problem. However, it is crucial to recognise the sometimes subtle signs and main symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, edema (swelling), feeling faint, weak, or lightheaded, sudden weight gain, loss of appetite, bloating, persistent coughing, heart palpitations, abdominal swelling, confusion, memory loss, or impaired thinking.
One method to diagnose heart failure is by conducting an echocardiogram, a test used to examine the heart's structure and function. Other tests cardiologists may use include stress echocardiogram, nuclear imaging, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cardiac computed tomography (CT).
For those diagnosed with heart failure, early treatment is essential. This allows the doctor more time to find the best treatment and gives the person time to treat the condition before it becomes critical. Treatment options vary and may include lifestyle measures such as regular physical activity, maintaining a moderate weight, limiting alcohol intake, eating a well-balanced diet, not smoking, and getting the right amount of sleep.
Medical interventions may include medications, procedures, or surgery. Pacemakers, small devices placed into the chest, help control heart rhythms, either by slowing or increasing the heart rate. Doctors may suggest an ICD for people with an ejection fraction of less than 30%. An ICD keeps track of the heart rate and shocks the heart if it detects an abnormal rhythm to restore the heart rate to a normal rhythm.
In some cases, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using a catheter with a small balloon to open a blocked or narrowed artery may be necessary. For more advanced cases, a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) can help the left ventricle pump blood out to the rest of the body, or transplant surgery may be considered when all other treatments have not worked. Biventricular pacemakers help the heart chambers pump in sync.
While the outlook for someone with heart failure depends on several factors, such as age, lifestyle habits, other medical conditions, and stage at diagnosis, research shows that approximately 60% of people are alive 5 years after their chronic heart failure diagnosis, with approximately 1 in 3 people still alive after 10 years.
It is important to remember that early diagnosis and treatment of heart failure can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for those affected. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
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