By Dr. Girish B Navasundi Posted on May 27, 2024

Understanding Heart Failure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

 

What is the Difference Between Heart Attack and Heart Failure?

Heart attack and heart failure are two distinct medical conditions, though they are often confused. A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to the heart muscle is suddenly reduced or completely blocked, leading to damage or death of the heart tissue. In contrast, heart failure is a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s demands.

Common Causes of Heart Failure

The most common causes of heart failure include hypertension (high blood pressure) and ischemic heart disease (blockages in the heart’s arteries). Other causes can include viral infections, congenital heart defects, and side effects from cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.

Signs and Symptoms of Heart Failure

The main symptoms of heart failure include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs and ankles, and difficulty breathing when lying down. Patients may also experience a feeling of fullness or bloating after eating, as well as coughing or wheezing.

Diagnosing Heart Failure

Diagnosing heart failure typically involves a physical exam, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiogram. These tests can help determine the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Blood tests to measure levels of certain hormones, like NT-proBNP, can also aid in the diagnosis.

Types of Heart Failure

There are two main types of heart failure: acute and chronic. Acute heart failure develops suddenly, often as a result of a heart attack or severe infection. Chronic heart failure, on the other hand, develops gradually over time as the heart becomes progressively weaker.

Treating Heart Failure

The treatment of heart failure typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions. Lifestyle changes include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting salt and fluid intake. Common medications used to treat heart failure include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and beta-blockers.

For patients with severe or worsening heart failure, more advanced treatments may be necessary. This can include the implantation of a defibrillator or pacemaker to help regulate the heart’s rhythm and prevent sudden cardiac death. In some cases, a heart transplant may be the best option.

Preventing Sudden Cardiac Death in Heart Failure Patients

Patients with heart failure, especially those with a reduced ejection fraction (less than 35%), are at a higher risk of sudden cardiac death. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) can help reduce this risk by continuously monitoring the heart’s rhythm and delivering a shock to restore a normal heartbeat if necessary.