The basic function of the heart is to pump the blood which is then circulated to the entire body. Heart failure occurs when the heart fails to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Today, heart failure has become a common ailment across the globe and is the root cause of many heart-related diseases.
A heart failure patient may experience one of these or different symptoms: Difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath. Initially, it will occur while the patient is exercising or doing some heavy work. At advanced stages, this occurs even while the patient is resting. An interruption in sleeping because of difficulty in breathing. Swelling in the ankles, feet, and legs. Coughing. The extra fluid in the body leads to weight gain. The patient is not able to do daily activities because they feel tired most of the time. Lack of appetite. Vomiting and nausea. Faster heartbeat.
Mostly, heart failure occurs because of one of the following reasons: Blockage of the arteries (coronary heart disease). Heart attack. High blood pressure. Heart valve problems. Diabetes. Lung diseases. Genetic problems in the heart muscles. Heart infections. Excessive intake of alcohol.
the doctor will enquire about the medical history of the patient, and about the various symptoms that the patient is facing. The patient might have to undergo various tests which include: X-ray ECG Blood tests Urine tests Ultrasound
Heart failure can be treated and cured depending on the conditions and cause of the disease. Heart disease patients should determine the workload according to the capability of the heart to work (pump blood). Light physical activities like walking, etc. are healthy for the heart. Limitations on your activities will depend on how severe your heart failure is. A program of light exercise helps most of the people. Medication Medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, digoxin, and diuretics can help in reducing the workload of the heart. The doctor will probably ask the patient to take a combination of many types of drugs. Blood thinners also reduce the workload for the heart. Keep a track of side-effects that come with the drugs. Report it to the doctor immediately. Gene therapy For treating the existing gene inherited by the patient, gene therapy can be used. Dietary Changes Consume a diet with the low amount of potassium and also decrease the consumption of salt. Try to keep the body in motion with mild exercises.
Following are some measures that can help prevent heart failure: Quitting smoking. Reducing stress. Healthier lifestyle by exercising. Not allowing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Eating healthy food.
