Heart Failure
Heart failure occurs when the heart cant pump enough blood to meet the bodys needs. It can affect the left side, right side, or both sides of the heart, leading to fatigue and fluid buildup.
Symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Increased need to urinate at night
Causes
- Coronary artery disease
- High blood pressure
- Cardiomyopathy
- Heart valve disease
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Arrhythmias
Treatments
- Medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, diuretics, beta-blockers)
- Lifestyle changes (low-sodium diet, exercise)
- Implantable devices (e.g., pacemakers)
- Surgical procedures (e.g., valve repair, bypass)
- Heart transplant (in severe cases)
Prevention
- Control blood pressure and diabetes
- Dont smoke
- Exercise regularly
- Limit alcohol
- Eat a heart-healthy diet