When discussing heart health, heart failure isn’t always the first condition that comes to mind. However, it is a serious and prevalent health issue that affects millions of Americans.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than five million American adults are living with heart failure. Despite its widespread impact, many people misunderstand what heart failure is and how it affects the body.
Understanding Heart Failure
Despite how it sounds, heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped working. Instead, it indicates that the heart is not pumping blood as efficiently as it should.
“When your heart is fully functioning, it adequately pumps oxygenated blood throughout the body, keeping it operating at its best,” explains Ugochukwu O. Egolum, MD, FACC, chief of cardiology and medical director of the heart failure program. “But when your heart isn’t able to keep up with your body’s needs, cells don’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood they need.”
When this occurs, everyday activities such as walking or climbing the stairs may become much more difficult.
What happens during heart failure?
When the heart’s ability to pump weakens, the body attempts to compensate in several ways.
“When your heart struggles to pump blood efficiently, the heart will try to compensate by getting bigger, developing more muscle mass or pumping faster,” says Dr. Egolum. “While all of these “fixes” may help for a short time, they can have dangerous effects over time.”
Additionally, the body may narrow blood vessels or redirect blood flow away from less essential organs, which can increase blood pressure and impair other bodily functions.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Heart Failure
Is heart failure a disease? Yes, it is a chronic condition that can develop gradually or suddenly. It is also sometimes referred to as congestive heart failure due to the fluid buildup it causes.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent cough, especially when lying down
- Difficulty breathing while lying flat
- Unexplained fatigue or weakness
- Frequent urination, particularly at night
- Shortness of breath during routine activities
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen
- Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention
These symptoms may develop over time, so it is essential to monitor changes in your health and consult a medical professional if they persist or worsen.
“As a heart failure specialist, we go through advanced training to not only understand the progression of the disease, but to determine the most effective and innovative treatments that will help to manage symptoms, address limitations, and ultimately extend patients’ lives,” says Dr. Egolum. “You don’t need to wait until you’re experiencing worsening signs of heart failure to see a specialist, it’s just as important to begin managing the disease proactively, which will help to protect your good health.”
Is heart failure serious?
Absolutely. Left untreated, heart failure can lead to severe complications, including kidney damage, liver congestion and life-threatening arrhythmias. However, with timely medical care and lifestyle modifications, individuals with heart failure can live fulfilling lives.
Preventing Heart Failure
Several factors contribute to heart failure, including heart attack, high blood pressure and diabetes. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a high-fat or high-sodium diet and lack of exercise also increase the risk.
To reduce your chances of developing heart failure, consider adopting heart-healthy habits:
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods and lean proteins
- Prioritize quality sleep and stress management
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Manage chronic conditions under the guidance of a healthcare professional
What is the life expectancy of someone with congestive heart failure?
The prognosis for heart failure varies depending on factors such as age, overall health and how well the condition is managed. While heart failure is a progressive disease, early detection and proper treatment can significantly improve life expectancy and quality of life.
Navigating a Heart Failure Diagnosis
A heart failure diagnosis can be overwhelming, but comprehensive care can make a difference. At Georgia Heart Institute our Advanced Heart Failure Program provides personalized treatment plans, incorporating lifestyle adjustments, medications and advanced therapies to help manage the condition effectively.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving outcomes. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of heart failure, book an appointment with our specialists today. Let us help you navigate your journey to better heart health—every step of the way.