Understanding Heart Failure

What is Heart Failure?

Despite what the term might suggest, heart failure doesn’t mean that the heart has completely stopped working. Instead, it means that the heart isn’t pumping blood as well as it should to meet the body’s needs. The heart may become too weak or stiff, and as a result, the blood flow to vital organs is reduced.

Think of the heart as a pump. If this pump becomes inefficient, the supply of blood and oxygen to the body is compromised, causing a wide range of health problems. Over time, this can lead to symptoms that severely affect daily life, and if untreated, it can be life-threatening.

What Causes Heart Failure?

There are several reasons why the heart may become too weak or stiff to function properly. Some common causes of heart failure include:

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This is one of the leading causes of heart failure, particularly in India. It occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup.

2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Uncontrolled high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder to pump blood, which can eventually weaken the heart over time.

3. Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop heart disease, which can lead to heart failure. India, with its growing number of diabetic patients, faces an increasing risk of heart failure cases.

4. Cardiomyopathy: This is a disease of the heart muscle itself, which can weaken the heart and affect its ability to pump blood.

5. Heart Attacks: After a heart attack, the damaged area of the heart may not pump as well, leading to heart failure.

6. Valve Problems: Damaged or faulty heart valves can cause the heart to work harder, eventually leading to heart failure.

7. Congenital Heart Defects: Some people are born with heart conditions that can weaken the heart over time, leading to heart failure.

Symptoms of Heart Failure

Heart failure can cause a variety of symptoms, which can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. It’s important to recognize these signs early and seek medical attention.

• Shortness of breath: You may feel breathless even when resting or after mild physical activity.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak, even during simple tasks.
• Swelling (Edema): Fluid may accumulate in the legs, ankles, or abdomen, causing swelling.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat: You may notice a fast or irregular pulse.
• Persistent cough or wheezing: Often accompanied by white or pink mucus.
• Difficulty concentrating: Reduced blood flow can cause confusion or memory problems.
• Sudden weight gain: This may indicate fluid retention, a common symptom of worsening heart failure.

Heart Failure in the Indian Context

In India, heart failure is becoming more common due to lifestyle changes, urbanization, and increasing cases of diabetes, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease. Unfortunately, awareness about heart failure is still low, and many people confuse it with a heart attack or think it’s a normal part of aging. However, heart failure can be managed, and early detection can significantly improve the quality of life.

Diagnosing Heart Failure

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to see a doctor. Diagnosis usually involves several tests to assess the heart’s function, including:

• Echocardiogram (Echo): An ultrasound of the heart that helps measure how well the heart is pumping.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): This records the electrical activity of the heart and can detect irregularities.
• Chest X-ray: This helps identify fluid buildup in the lungs or enlargement of the heart.
• Blood tests: Certain blood markers can indicate heart stress or damage.
• Stress tests: These assess how the heart performs under physical exertion.

Treatment of Heart Failure

While heart failure is a serious condition, it can be managed with the right treatment plan. The goal is to improve heart function, reduce symptoms, and prevent the condition from worsening. Treatment options include:

1. Medications: A variety of medications are available to help manage heart failure, including:

   • ACE inhibitors and ARBs: These relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
   • Beta-blockers: These reduce the heart’s workload and help it beat more regularly.
   • Diuretics: These help remove excess fluid from the body, reducing swelling and improving breathing.
   • Aldosterone antagonists: These medications help reduce the risk of heart failure worsening.

2. Lifestyle changes: Making healthy lifestyle choices is essential for managing heart failure:

   • Eat a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding excessive salt, fried foods, and processed snacks. In India, this means being mindful of consuming too many fried snacks, sweets, and foods high in sodium.
   • Exercise regularly: Physical activity can strengthen the heart and improve overall health, but it’s important to consult with a doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
   • Quit smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and significantly worsens heart failure symptoms.
   • Limit alcohol: Alcohol can weaken the heart over time, so it’s best to limit or avoid it altogether.

3. Devices and surgeries: In some cases, advanced treatments such as implantable devices (pacemakers or defibrillators) or even a heart transplant may be necessary.

Preventing Heart Failure

Prevention is always better than treatment. To reduce your risk of developing heart failure:

• Manage your blood pressure and cholesterol: Regular check-ups and medication (if needed) can keep these under control.
• Control your diabetes: Proper management of blood sugar levels can reduce the strain on your heart.
• Stay active: Regular exercise helps keep your heart healthy and strong.
• Eat a balanced diet: Focus on fresh, unprocessed foods and limit salt and unhealthy fats.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol: These two lifestyle factors play a huge role in heart health.

Heart failure is a serious condition but not an inevitable part of aging. With early detection, proper medical care, and a heart-healthy lifestyle, it’s possible to live a full and active life even after a heart failure diagnosis.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of heart failure, don’t ignore them. Early intervention can make a huge difference. At Marengo Asia CIMS Hospital, we offer comprehensive care and support for heart failure patients, helping them live better and healthier lives.

Stay heart-healthy,
Dr. Milan Chag
Cardiologist, Marengo Asia CIMS Hospital, Ahmedabad