Any condition that damages the heart muscle can cause systolic heart failure. These conditions include :. The following are possible symptoms of heart failure:. Congestion in the lungs: Fluid builds up in the lungs and causes shortness of breath, even when a person is resting, and particularly when they are lying down.
It can also cause a dry, hacking cough. Fluid retention: Less blood reaches the kidneys, which can result in water retention and can cause swelling of the ankles, legs, and abdomen. It can also cause weight gain. Fatigue and dizziness: A reduction in the amount of blood reaching the brain and other organs can cause weakness, dizziness, and confusion. Irregular and rapid heartbeats: The heart might pump more quickly to try to counteract the lower volume of blood that it pumps out with each contraction.
It may also activate stress receptors in the body, increasing the release of stress hormones. Many other conditions can cause similar symptoms, so it is important to see a doctor. People who have received a diagnosis of heart failure should monitor their symptoms carefully and report any sudden changes to their doctor immediately. There are several types of heart failure. It may affect just one side of the heart — the oxygenated or deoxygenated side — or both sides.
Types of congestive heart failure include :. This is the most common form of congestive heart failure. It usually develops as a result of coronary artery disease. The left side of the heart is responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body. In people with left-sided heart failure, blood backs up into the lungs because the heart does not pump it away effectively. This issue can cause shortness of breath and a buildup of fluid.
The right side of the heart pumps blood to the lungs, where it collects oxygen. Right-sided heart failure typically follows left-sided heart failure. However, it can sometimes occur due to other conditions, such as lung disease or pulmonary hypertension. Diastolic heart failure occurs when the heart muscle is stiffer than usual and does not relax normally but pumps normally.
When the heart is stiff, it does not fill up with blood properly. Doctors refer to this as diastolic dysfunction. When the heart does not fill up with blood as usual, it causes increased pressure inside the heart, which can lead to a backup of fluid into the lungs. It often occurs if one or both sides of the heart become weak or enlarged.
Certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of heart failure or slow its progression. Lifestyle changes. These are the same changes as those for preventing heart failure.
In addition, you may be advised to avoid salt because of fluid retention and caffeine because of heartbeat irregularities. Your doctor will advise how much fluid and what kinds to drink, as sometimes fluid intake should be limited.
According to Jones, the types of medications typically prescribed include these:. Surgical procedures. In more severe cases, surgery is required to open or bypass blocked arteries, or to replace heart valves.
Some congestive heart failure patients are candidates for a type of pacemaker called biventricular pacing therapy, which helps both sides of the heart work in concert, or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, which shocks the heart into converting a potentially fatal fast rhythm to a normal one.
Ventricular assist devices VAD therapy may be used as a bridge to heart transplantation or as a treatment in lieu of transplant, says Jones.
A heart transplant is considered the last resort, with success rates of about 88 percent after one year and 75 percent after five years. Other treatments. Because sleep apnea—a condition in which the muscles that allow air into the lungs briefly collapse—is linked to heart failure, you may be evaluated and treated for it. Johns Hopkins researchers are on the forefront of the study of congestive heart failure.
Among their recent findings:. Health Home Conditions and Diseases. Steven Jones. Prevention The best way to avoid congestive heart failure is to avoid the conditions that contribute to it, or to carefully manage these conditions if they develop, says Jones. Among the components of a treatment plan: Lifestyle changes. According to Jones, the types of medications typically prescribed include these: Vasodilators expand blood vessels, ease blood flow, and reduce blood pressure.
Diuretics correct fluid retention. Aldosterone inhibitors help with fluid retention and improve chances of living longer. Anticoagulants or antiplatelets such as aspirin help prevent blood clots. Beta-blockers improve heart function and chances of living longer. Tranquilizers reduce anxiety. The weakening of the heart's pumping ability causes Blood and fluid to back up into the lungs The buildup of fluid in the feet, ankles and legs - called edema Tiredness and shortness of breath Common causes of heart failure are coronary artery disease , high blood pressure and diabetes.
Start Here. Diagnosis and Tests. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Prevention and Risk Factors. Treatments and Therapies. Living With. Related Issues. Cardiac Asthma: What Causes It? Statistics and Research.
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