Congestive Heart Failure Causes & Symptoms

Heart Failure An Overview

What is heart failure?

Congestive heart failure, also simply called heart failure, occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively. The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to other parts of the body. When the heart struggles to meet the body’s demand for oxygen-rich blood, it weakens. When the heart weakens, it can no longer supply oxygen-rich blood through the necessary channels, resulting in further complications to the heart, organs, and body.

Heart failure is a severe medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Heart failure symptoms are one of the cardiovascular concerns that Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute takes very seriously. Due to advancements in cardiovascular medicine, patients are receiving the treatment they need to manage their symptoms and live a fulfilled life. Although heart failure has no direct cure, there are various treatments available to help patients manage their symptoms.

treating heart failure in Dayton Ohio

Visit Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute

Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute is committed to providing patients with personalized, comprehensive heart and vascular care. Our modern facility is equipped with the latest technology in cardiac and vascular imaging.

Our comprehensive team of cardiologists, board-certified physicians, and electrophysiologists is uniquely qualified to diagnose and address various heart and vascular concerns. To learn more about diagnosing and treating heart failure, visit one of our Dayton, OH offices.

Heart Failure What to Expect

What causes heart failure?

There is a wide range of medical conditions that may lead to heart failure. Anyone can develop heart failure. However, it is more likely to happen as you age. The leading causes of heart failure are coronary artery disease, previous heart attack, diabetes, and cardiomyopathy. Other factors such as high blood pressure, heart valve disease, and heart defects may also contribute to heart failure.

What are the symptoms of heart failure?

Symptoms of heart failure can range from mild and moderate to very severe. Some patients even report no symptoms at all. It all depends on how weak or strong your heart is at the time. Symptoms may include:

Heart palpitations
Irregular and rapid heartbeats
Shortness of breath
Persistent coughing
Fatigue
Fluid retention

How do you diagnose heart failure?

We highly recommend getting diagnosed with congestive heart failure if you have experienced any of the above symptoms. After a full examination, your cardiologist will determine what tests and procedures should be performed to identify the cause of heart failure. A cardiovascular specialist may order one or more of these tests to diagnose heart failure:

How is heart failure treated?

Treatment for congestive heart failure depends on the underlying condition and the severity of heart failure. A Buckeye Heart & Vascular physician will perform a series of tests to determine the best way to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Advancements in cardiovascular technology and medicine help patients with heart failure live longer, more active lifestyles. The goal of treatments is to:

Address the underlying reason for heart failure
Minimize symptoms
Stop heart failure from progressing
Improve a patient’s quality of life

Treatments for congestive heart failure may include ongoing cardiovascular care, implantable cardiac device, medication, or heart transplant surgery. Contact Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute for more information regarding diagnosis and treatments. Schedule a visit online today.

Heart Failure FAQs

How manageable is heart failure?: Heart failure is a condition that gets progressively worse over time. However, we can reverse certain cases. There are a number of things we can do to slow the progression of the condition and relieve some of the symptoms that you’re having.
How quickly does heart failure progress?: The most common cause of heart failure is a heart attack. These can damage your heart and impact the way it pumps blood. It may progress quickly after that, but it all depends on the case. It can move slowly as well.
Can I still live a normal life with heart failure?: Yes, with the proper treatment and monitoring, you can still live a normal life with this condition. We’ll analyze your condition and create a personalized treatment plan for your future. You must follow your treatment plan and stay on track to manage the condition properly.
What foods and drinks should I avoid with heart failure?: Alcohol can weaken the heart muscle and make heart failure worse. Too much salt causes issues even in otherwise healthy people. For patients with heart failure, it can cause serious complications. It increases your blood pressure, too. Processed meats are high in sodium, while red meats are high in fat that can clog your arteries. Try to eat lighter meats and fish instead of burgers and steaks.
Can weight loss reverse heart failure?: When you start exercising and losing weight early enough, it can help to reverse the condition. However, there’s no guarantee that this will reverse it. It’s ideally one part of a detailed treatment plan.
What's the most common complaint people have with heart failure?: Most patients experience shortness of breath with heart failure, especially upon exertion or movement of the body. They may also have chest tightness or pain, faint, or heart palpitations that don’t go away. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these things.

Congestive Heart Failure Dayton, OH