Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive Heart Failure occurs when the heart muscle stops pumping blood properly. This condition can appear constantly (chronic) or suddenly (acute).

Causes

Some diseases, such as narrow heart arteries or high blood pressure, gradually weaken the heart so that it can fill and pump efficiently.

Treatments can improve heart failure's signs and symptoms and help increase life expectancy.

Symptoms of Heart Failure

• Shortness of breath on exertion

• Chest pain

• Fatigue and weakness

• Swelling of legs, ankles, and feet

• Irregular heartbeat, abnormal heart rhythms

• Frequent urination at night

• Swollen abdomen 

• Gain weight

• Loss of appetite

• Sickness

• Unable to concentrate

• Coughing up pink mucus 

Risk factors

• Heart-Attack

• Sleep apnea, trouble breathing while sleeping

• Alcohol consumption

• Tobacco use

• Congenital Heart Disease

• Diabetes

• Consumption of certain Diabetes medications: it is necessary to consult your doctor about these

• Coronary Artery Disease

• Consumption of certain medications can increase the risk of having heart problems, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and Arrhythmia medications, among others. Contact your doctor if you have questions about the medicines you are using.

• Irregular heartbeat

• Obesity

• Hypertension

• Valve disease

• Virus, viral infection

Diagnosis of Congestive Heart Failure 

The Cardiologist will perform exams and ask questions about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. Your Cardiologist may also check for other factors, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. 

The Cardiologist can use a stethoscope to check for signs of congestion or detect abnormal heart sounds that may be causing heart failure. The cardiologist may examine the veins in your neck to see if fluid has accumulated in the abdomen and legs. 

We group some of the possible tests that could be carried out: 

• Blood test 

• Chest X-Ray helps to see the state of the lungs and heart 

• Electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of the heart 

• Echocardiogram, produces video images of the heart, the size, and shape of the heart can be observed, in addition to any abnormality.

• Stress Tests

• Cardiac Computed Tomography (CT Scan) allows images of the heart and chest to be seen and see if there is any risk of heart attack 

• Magnetic Resonance (MRI) 

• Coronary Angiography allows visualizing the arteries that supply blood to the heart and detect any obstruction in these 

• Myocardial biopsy, this test can recognize certain types of heart muscle diseases that can cause heart failure.

Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure

The treatment your doctor provides will depend on the type of heart failure you have.

Remember that before you consume any medication, your Cardiologist must assess your particular case and prescribe the most appropriate medication.

Living with Congestive Heart Failure 

Following the treatment provided by your Cardiologist and leading a healthy lifestyle could help improve your quality of life.

 We group the following recommendations. 

• Do regular and continued physical exercise 

• Do not smoke

• Maintain a healthy weight 

• Maintain a low-salt diet 

• Manage stress 

• Eat healthily 

• Get enough rest

¿When to see a doctor?

It is essential to consult a Cardiology specialist to diagnose Congestive Heart Failure and to be able to start a treatment that helps you control your symptoms. 

When consulting your Cardiologist, try to keep a record of your pain with a detailed description of the symptoms, duration, and what you think triggered them. Also, mention any medications you are taking.

Call the emergency number +52 (624) 104 3911 for help immediately.

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