Overview of Heart Failure

Heart failure is a chronic and progressive condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. This can occur when the heart is damaged or weakened, such as from a heart attack, high blood pressure, or other underlying health conditions.

The main symptoms of heart failure are fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention, which can lead to swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. Heart failure can also cause coughing and wheezing, difficulty sleeping, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

There are several different types of heart failure, including left-sided heart failure, right-sided heart failure, and congestive heart failure. Left-sided heart failure occurs when the left side of the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Right-sided heart failure occurs when the right side of the heart is unable to pump blood to the lungs, where it can receive oxygen. Congestive heart failure is a condition in which excess fluid builds up in the body due to the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively.

Heart failure is a serious condition that requires ongoing medical management. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, and in severe cases, surgery or heart transplant. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your heart failure and prevent complications.