Types of congestive heart failure

Left-sided heart failure can make it harder to move blood forward and may cause breathlessness or a cough, especially when lying down. Right-sided failure can lead to fluid collecting in the legs or abdomen. Both sides may be involved.

Clinicians also describe heart failure by how the heart contracts and relaxes. A weakened squeeze is different from a heart that squeezes reasonably but does not fill easily. High blood pressure, coronary disease, valve problems and Atrial Fibrillation can contribute, but symptoms alone cannot identify the type.

Assessment may include an examination, blood tests, an electrocardiogram and heart imaging. Treatment is tailored to the pattern found and may include medicines, advice about salt and fluid, and support for an underlying rhythm or blood pressure problem.

Take medicines as prescribed and record changes in breathlessness, weight, swelling and activity tolerance if your clinician recommends it. A Chronic Disease Review can check symptoms, treatment, vaccinations and self-management plans over time.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness at rest, chest pain, fainting, new confusion, blue lips or a sudden inability to speak normally. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or severely unwell.

Contact your care team promptly if swollen ankles rapidly worsen, you gain fluid quickly, your cough becomes troublesome, or palpitations continue with dizziness. These changes may need an examination and treatment review.

Ask whether your heart failure mainly affects contraction, relaxation, the left side, the right side or both. Ask which test showed this, which symptoms to track, how much activity is suitable, and what change should trigger urgent advice.