Congestive Heart Failure occurs when the heart is not pumping effectively , and not delivery enough oxygen to the blood.

What Causes It?

• Weakened or damaged heart muscle as a result of a heart attack or coronary artery disease.
• Prolonged high blood pressure
• Damaged heart valves
• Long term alcohol abuse
• Chronic lung disease such as emphysema
• Some viral infections

Symptoms to Look For

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath after exercise or severe shortness of breath after any activity
• Difficult breathing laying in bed or waking up at night with shortness of breath
• Swollen ankles and feet along with weight gain because of too much body fluid

Diagnosis and Tests

Your doctor may diagnose by using any of the following tests:

• Physical exam
• Chest X-RAY
• ECG (Electrocardiogram)
• Ultrasound (Echocardiogram)
• Special type of catheter inserted into the heart or through arteries

Treatment

• Increase efficiency of the heart’s pumping action: ACE inhibitor drugs are given to treat congestive heart failure. They dilate or open up the arteries. The heart has less work to do as a result and can pump blood more effectively.
• Digoxin may also be prescribed to increase the heart’s pumping efficiency.

• Eliminate excessive water: Diuretics are given to remove water build up in your body as a result of CHF. Potassium supplements are also given to replace potassium losses caused by diuretics.

• Lots of rest: Each day of complete rest saves your heart approximately 25,000 beats. Alternating rest periods with activities helps.
• Reduce Stress and Anxiety which increases blood pressure and heart rate.
• If none of the above work, heart surgery may be needed. More serious cases may need heart transplants or implant or an artificial heart.

If left untreated, CHF can be life threatening. If you follow the doctor’s directions on diet, rest and medications, you will probably enjoy many years of almost normal living.