Definition and Prevalence:
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. It affects around 5% of the population over 50, especially men.
Mortality and Treatment Impact:
Without treatment, heart failure can lead to death within 2-3 years of symptom onset. Effective treatment can significantly improve lifespan and quality of life.
Earliest Sign - Shortness of Breath:
Initially occurs during physical activity and worsens over time, eventually affecting even small exertions and rest.
Cause of Shortness of Breath:
Blood backs up into the pulmonary veins, increasing pressure in the pulmonary capillaries, causing fluid to leak into the lungs.
Fatigue:
Occurs due to reduced blood supply to muscles, resulting in chronic tiredness and lack of energy.
Swelling (Edema):
Starts in the legs and can spread to other parts of the body, including the stomach (ascites) and lungs (pulmonary edema), leading to orthopnea (difficulty breathing while lying down).
Palpitations:
Rapid or irregular heartbeat due to arrhythmias, commonly tachycardia.
Cough or Wheezing:
Chronic unexplained cough due to fluid in the lungs, which can worsen when lying down.
Heart Failure Classes:
Four classes ranging from no symptoms (Class I) to severe symptoms at rest (Class IV).
Risk Factors:
Include coronary artery disease, hypertension, arrhythmias, and structural heart diseases.
Diagnosis:
Based on physical symptoms, echocardiogram (ejection fraction), heart size changes, electrocardiogram (abnormal rhythms), and elevated B-type natriuretic peptide levels.
Initial Treatment (Class I):
Low sodium diet, regular physical activity, weight management, smoking cessation, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta blockers, and diuretics if needed.
Treatment for Class II:
Similar to Class I, with the addition of aldosterone antagonists if necessary.
Treatment for Class III:
Includes digoxin, cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), and possibly an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).
Treatment for Class IV:
Involves strict bed rest, fluid and sodium restrictions, high-dose diuretics, IV medications, and potentially a heart transplant. Prognosis is poor, but aggressive treatment can extend life.
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Disclaimer:
This information is provided for general knowledge and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor for any questions or concerns you may have about your health.