What is congestive heart failure?
Congestive heart failure, which is sometimes referred to as simply heart failure, develops when your heart doesn’t pump blood properly as a result of fluid buildup in your body. It’s one of the most common reasons adults over 65 seek medical attention.
If you have congestive heart failure, it doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working. It means your heart is working inefficiently and isn’t supplying your body with sufficient blood and oxygen. When congestive heart failure is left untreated, it can worsen over time. With your heart not pumping enough blood, a backup of blood can develop in your veins, leading to troublesome symptoms.
What are the signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure?
There are a variety of common signs and symptoms, both physical and cognitive, that are associated with congestive heart failure, including:
- Shortness of breath, particularly while exercising or lying down
- General fatigue
- Coughing or wheezing, particularly while exercising or lying down
- Swelling in your ankles, feet, and legs
- Unexplained weight gain
- Inability to concentrate or think clearly
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to get checked out.
What causes congestive heart failure?
One of the most common causes of congestive heart failure is coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD occurs when the arteries that supply your heart with blood grow constricted by backed up plaque. There are also a host of risk factors that can increase your chances of developing congestive heart failure, including underlying conditions, such as:
- Previous heart attack
- Heart defects present since birth
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
- Being overweight
- Diabetes
- Thyroid problems
- Alcohol or substance abuse
The best way to limit your risk of developing congestive heart failure is maintaining both a healthy weight and an active lifestyle.
How is congestive heart failure treated?
First, Dr. Chane performs a comprehensive physical exam, and then he may opt for additional testing, such as blood tests, an echocardiogram, or stress testing, before offering a congestive heart failure diagnosis.
For treatment, Dr. Chane and his team work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that can help you manage this chronic condition. In most cases, a key part of treatment includes adopting healthy lifestyle choices, such as a consistent exercise routine, healthy dieting, and quitting bad habits like smoking or consuming too much alcohol.
Depending on the specifics and severity of your condition, you may also need ongoing medication management or surgery. Dr. Chane closely monitors your heart condition and tracks your progress to update your treatment plan accordingly.
To learn more about congestive heart failure and treatment options available to you, call or schedule an appointment online today.
