Heart failure may sound frightening, but advances in medical science have made it a highly manageable condition. Awareness, early intervention, and adherence to medical guidance are your best tools for living well with heart failure. Here are some general questions about heart failure which every patient wants to know.
What is heart failure?
Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, is a condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs. It doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working, but rather that it’s functioning less efficiently than normal.
What causes heart failure?
There are several causes. The most common include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, previous heart attacks, heart valve diseases, and certain infections or genetic conditions that weaken the heart muscle.
What are the early symptoms I should watch out for?
Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs or ankles, rapid heartbeat, persistent coughing, and difficulty lying flat due to breathlessness. These symptoms often worsen over time if left untreated.
How is heart failure diagnosed?
We start with a physical exam and medical history, followed by tests like ECG (electrocardiogram), echocardiogram, chest X-ray, blood tests (including BNP), and sometimes cardiac MRI or stress tests. These help us assess heart function and determine the type and severity of heart failure.
Can heart failure be cured?
While heart failure often cannot be completely cured, it can be managed very effectively. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people live long and active lives.
What are the main treatment options?
Treatment typically includes medications, lifestyle modifications, and in some cases, device implantations or surgery. The goal is to improve symptoms, slow disease progression, and reduce hospitalisations.
What kind of medications are usually prescribed?
Common medications include ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers), ARNI (angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors), aldosterone antagonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors. Each plays a role in improving heart function and controlling symptoms.
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make?
Yes, and they’re very important. Reduce salt intake, manage fluid intake, avoid alcohol and smoking, monitor weight daily, exercise regularly (as advised), and control blood pressure and diabetes. Following a heart-healthy diet is also crucial.
What about devices? When are they needed?
When medications aren’t enough or if the heart rhythm is affected, we may recommend devices like pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). These help regulate heartbeat and improve heart function.
Is surgery ever required for heart failure?
Sometimes. If heart failure is due to valve disease, valve repair or replacement might be necessary. In severe cases, especially when other treatments have failed, a heart transplant or a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) may be considered.
Are there any risks associated with device implantation?
Like any medical procedure, device implantation carries risks such as infection, bleeding, or device malfunction. However, for many patients, the benefits significantly outweigh the risks, especially when managed by experienced medical teams.
How often should I follow up with my doctor if I have heart failure?
Regular follow-ups are crucial. Initially, visits might be frequent—every few weeks—to stabilize your condition. Once stable, follow-ups every 3–6 months are typical. Always report any changes in symptoms immediately.
Can heart failure patients live a normal life?
Absolutely. With proper treatment, regular monitoring, and commitment to lifestyle changes, many patients with heart failure can lead fulfilling and active lives. The key is early diagnosis and consistent care.
(The Author is Chairman & HOD – BLK-Max Heart & Vascular Institute, Chairman Pan Max – Electrophysiology, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi)
