Dr. Siddhant Jain - Cardiologist , Our existence is completely dependent on the function of the heart. This is what makes the prospect of heart failure so deadly and so terrifying. Despite what the heart says, heart failure is not a sign of an underactive heart; But only a condition when the heart normally pumps weaker than is considered natural.
Consequently, the blood flows at a slower rate to the heart and the body that in turn increases pressure in the heart and its connected vessels. The blood supply that is produced by the heart in such a scenario is scanty and insufficient for the body.
Body responds with its own defense mechanism, as the heart, in an attempt to hold more blood, stretches its chambers. Though this strenuous effort may keep the blood moving, it would gradually and inevitably weary the heart with all the effort. Subsequently, the kidney responds by retaining more salt and fluid in the body.
These fluids may accumulate in different parts of the body, mainly in the legs, feet, ankles leading to congestion in the body. This very condition in medical terminology is referred to as Congestive Heart Failure (CHF).
Different Causes can contribute to the onset of such a serious & fatal condition. Some of them are:-
Coronary Artery Disease: In such a condition, the arteries supply insufficient amount of oxygen and blood to the heart. Subsequently, the heart receives scanty amount of nutrients and oxygen.
Heart Attack : The sudden, unanticipated blockage of the coronary artery and the ensuing stoppage of the flow of the blood lead to a heart attack. The heart muscles are damaged in such a case and prevent the proper functioning.
Other Diseases: Though the term may be generic and over expansive, most of the ailments which people suffer from tend to manifest themselves by posing a potential threat to the functioning of the heart. A high blood pressure , kidney disease , even a thyroid disease can lead to congestive heart failure.
Infections : certain virus can affect the heart and can cause myocarditis and heart failure
Every disorder is preceded by certain symptoms, and congestive heart failure is no different.
Stages of Heart Failure
FATIGUE : It is one of the most perceptible symptoms of congestive heart failure. One of the early predictors of impending heart failure is a frightening feeling of fatigue and lethargy.
SWELLING : As the condition is characterized by accumulation and build-up of fluids in various part of the body, swelling is an inevitable symptom of this condition and a clear indication of the ailment.
SHORTNESS OF BREATH : the person will have trouble breathing when working out or at rest, or even when speaking
Heart failure can cause cough, chest pain, palpitations, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and many other things.