Left ventricle heart failure: what to know

The left ventricle sends oxygen-rich blood around the body. When its pumping or filling is impaired, pressure may build behind it and fluid can collect in the lungs. This may lead to breathlessness, a cough, reduced exercise tolerance, fatigue or difficulty lying flat. Causes can include long-standing Hypertension, damage to the heart muscle, valve problems or an abnormal rhythm such as Atrial Fibrillation.

Keep appointments so your clinician can review symptoms, blood pressure, rhythm, kidney function and medicines. Take treatment as prescribed and do not stop it suddenly. Ask how to monitor weight or swelling if this is part of your plan. Pace activity, reduce smoking exposure and follow personalised advice about salt and fluids. A Chronic Disease Review can help coordinate ongoing care.

Call emergency services for sudden severe breathlessness, chest pressure, collapse, blue lips, confusion or coughing up pink, frothy fluid. Seek prompt review for rapidly increasing swelling, a new irregular heartbeat, faintness or a sudden decline in your usual ability to walk or sleep comfortably.

Ask what type of left-sided failure you have, which medicines are essential, how to recognise fluid build-up, what activity is suitable, and when your treatment should be reassessed.