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Heart Failure
Urgent
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It does not mean that the heart has stopped working. Heart failure may develop suddenly or gradually and can affect one or both sides of the heart. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, tiredness, weakness, swelling of the legs or feet, and difficulty breathing when lying down.
Body System
Heart & Blood Vessels
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek urgent medical attention for sudden or rapidly worsening shortness of breath, severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, fainting, confusion, bluish lips or skin, or rapidly increasing swelling. Severe breathing difficulty or persistent chest pain requires emergency care.
Symptoms
3
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. It does not mean that the heart has stopped working. Heart failure may develop suddenly or gradually and can affect one or both sides of the heart. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, tiredness, weakness, swelling of the legs or feet, and difficulty breathing when lying down.
Symptoms 3
Burning Urination
Chest Pain
Upper Abdominal Pain
Causes 3
Heart failure can result from conditions that weaken or damage the heart or make it work harder. Common causes include coronary artery disease, previous heart attack, high blood pressure, heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, and abnormal heart rhythms. Diabetes, obesity, and other conditions can also contribute. Sometimes the exact cause cannot be identified.
High Cholesterol
Obesity
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors for heart failure include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and a family history of heart disease. Risk also increases with age. Previous heart attack, heart valve disease, abnormal heart rhythms, and some diseases that damage the heart muscle can increase the likelihood of developing heart failure.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Heart failure is diagnosed using symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. Doctors may check for abnormal heart sounds, swelling, or signs of fluid buildup. Tests can include blood tests, chest X-rays, an electrocardiogram, and echocardiography to assess heart structure and function. Other imaging or heart tests may be used to identify the cause and severity.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
The risk of heart failure can be reduced by controlling conditions that damage the heart
This includes maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, managing diabetes, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a heart-healthy diet, and getting regular physical activity
Treating heart disease and following prescribed treatment can also help prevent worsening heart function
Prevention Guidance
The risk of heart failure can be reduced by controlling conditions that damage the heart. This includes maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, managing diabetes, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a heart-healthy diet, and getting regular physical activity. Treating heart disease and following prescribed treatment can also help prevent worsening heart function.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and minerals.
Vegetables
Support overall heart health.
Whole Grains
Provide sustained energy.
Lean Protein
Supports muscle function.
Foods to Avoid
Excess Salt
Can worsen fluid retention.
Processed Foods
Often contain excess sodium.
Alcohol
May worsen heart function.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
Breathlessness, swelling, and fatigue are common symptoms.
It is usually managed rather than completely cured.
Diagnosis includes ECG, echocardiography, and blood tests.
Yes, diet, exercise, and medication adherence are important.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.