Congestive Heart Failure is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs, leading to a buildup of fluid in tissues and organs.
Types:
Left-Sided Heart Failure: Affects the left ventricle, causing fluid to back up into the lungs (pulmonary congestion).
Right-Sided Heart Failure: Affects the right ventricle, leading to fluid retention in the abdomen, legs, and feet.
Biventricular Failure: Involves both left and right ventricles.
Causes:
Coronary Artery Disease: Reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
Hypertension: Chronic high blood pressure increases heart workload.
Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle.
Heart Valve Disorders: Malfunctioning valves disrupt blood flow.
Myocardial Infarction: Damage from a heart attack.
Symptoms:
Shortness of Breath: Especially during exertion or lying down.
Fatigue and Weakness: Due to inadequate blood flow.
Edema: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and abdomen.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: As the heart tries to compensate.
Persistent Cough or Wheezing: Often with white or pink phlegm.
Diagnosis:
Clinical Evaluation: Medical history and physical examination.
Imaging: Echocardiogram, chest X-ray.
Blood Tests: B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels.
Electrocardiogram (ECG): To assess heart rhythm and damage.
Management:
Lifestyle Changes: Low-sodium diet, fluid restriction, regular exercise, weight management.
Medications: Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, aldosterone antagonists, and others.
Medical Devices: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), pacemakers.
Surgical Interventions: Valve repair or replacement, coronary bypass surgery, heart transplantation in severe cases.
Prognosis of Congestive heart failure:
Chronic and progressive condition; early detection and management can improve quality of life and outcomes.
Requires ongoing medical care and lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms and prevent complications.