What should you know about common cause of heart failure?

Heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped. It means the heart cannot pump enough blood or cannot fill normally without increased pressure. High blood pressure can make the heart work against greater resistance for years. A previous heart attack, damaged heart muscle, valve disease, or an irregular rhythm such as atrial fibrillation can also impair pumping or filling. Fluid may then build up, causing breathlessness, cough, swollen ankles, tiredness, or reduced exercise tolerance.

Arrange a clinical review for new breathlessness, persistent fatigue, ankle swelling, or palpitations. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests, heart tracing, and imaging chosen for your symptoms. Treatment targets the cause and may include medicines, rhythm management, blood pressure control, and advice about salt, fluids, activity, and daily weight checks when clinically appropriate. Keep a record of swelling, breathing changes, and your ability to do usual tasks.

Call emergency services for sudden severe breathlessness, chest pain, blue or grey lips, fainting, new confusion, or coughing pink frothy fluid. Contact a clinician promptly if swelling rapidly worsens, breathing becomes difficult when lying down, or palpitations come with dizziness or weakness. A sudden change can reflect fluid buildup or a rhythm problem.

Ask what may have caused the strain on your heart, which tests will clarify its pumping and filling, and how to take each medicine. Discuss warning signs, suitable activity, monitoring at home, and whether a chronic disease review should be scheduled.