Heart Failure

The heart’s task is to maintain circulation by pumping blood through the blood vessels to different parts of the body. The right side of the heart pumps blood to the lungs for oxygenation, after which the left side pumps the oxygenated blood from the lungs through the aorta to the rest of the body. Heart failure refers to a condition in which the pumping strength of the heart is weakened to the point that it can no longer pump blood forward as effectively as the body requires.

What Are the Symptoms of Heart Failure?

The symptoms of heart failure can be quite nonspecific. The most common symptoms include shortness of breath, unusual fatigue during exertion or even at rest, and swelling in both lower limbs. Swelling in the ankles, nighttime coughing, and sudden weight gain are signs of fluid retention. If heart failure is severe, shortness of breath may worsen when lying down and may be accompanied by coughing, but the symptoms improve when sitting upright.

Many other conditions can also cause similar symptoms, but symptoms suggestive of heart failure should always be examined more closely during a cardiology appointment.

How Is Heart Failure Diagnosed?

During a medical appointment, symptoms are assessed through an interview, and the physician considers whether there are hereditary factors that may predispose to heart failure. The doctor listens to the heart and examines whether there are signs of fluid retention or an underlying condition that may contribute to heart failure. An ECG is part of the basic examinations if a heart condition is suspected. A chest X‑ray may be taken if lung changes are suspected. In addition to BNP, other blood tests are needed to investigate underlying causes. An echocardiogram shows the function of the heart muscle and blood flow, allowing a definitive diagnosis of heart failure. The examination may also reveal the cause of the failure. Echocardiography can show, for example, the function of the heart valves and detect scar tissue caused by a heart attack.

What Causes Heart Failure?

Heart failure is a serious condition, but with proper treatment, patients can live a good life. Most commonly, heart failure results from coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, valve disease, arrhythmias, or various storage diseases. All of these conditions place increased strain on the heart, which may weaken its function and lead to heart failure. It is also possible that the underlying cause of heart failure cannot be identified.

Treatment of Heart Failure

The treatment plan for heart failure is created together with a cardiologist. Treatment consists of lifestyle measures, medication, and, when necessary, cardiac procedures. In addition to treating heart failure itself, treatment also focuses on managing the underlying condition.

The cornerstone of treatment is medication, which can prevent disease progression, improve prognosis, and relieve symptoms caused by fluid retention. Effective care pathways and thorough patient education are also essential for successful medical treatment.

It is important for a person with heart failure to know what they can do themselves and when to seek help if symptoms worsen. Signs of worsening heart failure include rapid weight gain, increased swelling, worsening shortness of breath, coughing, and an elevated heart rate.