What is Heart Failure?
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump blood properly. This means the heart cannot move blood throughout the body as it should. As a result, fluid backs up in the body, and organs don't get as much blood as they need. This can cause symptoms. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't actually "fail" or stop beating, but it just isn't functioning as it should.
What Are the Symptoms of Heart Failure?
You may not have any symptoms at first. But, as the condition worsens, it can cause:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Kliyengan/feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Difficulty breathing – This may cause you to be less active or need a high pillow at night when sleeping.
- A pounding heartbeat, even when resting
- Swelling in your feet, ankles, and lower legs, or in your abdomen
Are There Any Tests or Screenings for Heart Failure?
Yes. If your doctor thinks you may have heart failure, they will perform additional tests, including:
- Electrocardiogram ("ECG")
This measures the electrical activity in the heart. It can indicate whether you have an abnormal heartbeat or have had a heart attack in the past. These are some of the things that can cause heart failure.
- Blood Test
A blood test called "brain natriuretic peptide" ("BNP") or " N-terminal pro-BNP" ("NT-pro-BNP") . High levels of BNP or NT-pro-BNP are found in people with heart failure.
- Chest X-ray (CXR)
This can show whether there is fluid in the lungs. It also shows the general shape of the heart and major blood vessels in the chest.
- Echocardiogram
This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart as it beats. It can show the size of the heart chambers, how well the heart is pumping, and how well the heart valves are working.
- Stress Test
You'll be asked to walk and run on a treadmill while undergoing an EKG or other heart test. Physical activity makes the heart pump harder and increases its demand for blood. This test helps doctors determine whether the heart is getting enough blood during exercise.
- Cardiac Catheterization / Cardiac catheterization ("heart cath")
The doctor inserts a thin tube/catheter into a blood vessel in the leg or arm. Then, a heart scan is performed, measuring and evaluating the coronary arteries, which will reveal whether any arteries in the heart are narrowed or blocked. This part of the test is called a "coronary angiography."
How Is Heart Failure Treated?
There are many treatment methods for heart failure, but medication is an essential part of managing the condition. Here's an explanation:
- Take your medications regularly every day, even if you feel well. Medications will help reduce symptoms and help you live longer. They can also reduce your risk of hospitalization, heart attack, or death. These medications will work best if you take them as directed by your doctor.
- Tell your doctor if your medication is causing side effects or other problems. Your doctor may be able to switch you to a different medication or lower the dosage to help you avoid these problems.
- Implantation of a device to help the heart pump more forcefully or beat at the right rhythm.
- Surgery to improve blood flow to the heart or replace the heart.
- Exercise to help prevent the condition from getting worse.
How to Protect My Heart and When Should I See a Doctor?
If you do the following things, you will feel better and reduce your chances of being hospitalized:
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Pay attention to any changes in symptoms, and follow the action plan
An action plan is a list of instructions on what to do if your symptoms change. To use the action plan, you must pay close attention to your symptoms and weigh yourself daily (see next point). If your symptoms worsen or you gain weight suddenly, contact your doctor immediately.
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Weigh yourself every morning
Weigh yourself every morning after urinating but before breakfast. Wear roughly the same amount of clothing at all times. Write down your weight every day on a calendar.
Call your doctor if you gain 2 pounds or more (1 kilogram) in one day, or 4 pounds or more (2 kilograms) in one week. In patients with heart failure, sudden weight gain is a sign that your body may be retaining too much fluid. You may need to change your medications.
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Eat less salt
Try not to add salt at the table or while cooking. Also, avoid boxed and canned foods unless the label says they're low in sodium.
The best choices for food are fresh frozen foods, and foods that you prepare yourself.
Ask your doctor how much salt you should consume. Your doctor may also advise you to limit the amount of fluid you drink.
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Lose weight, if you are overweight
If you are overweight, your heart has to work extra hard to meet your body's needs.
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Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Smoking and alcohol will worsen heart failure and increase the risk of having a heart attack or dying.
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Actively ask questions
Ask your doctor what activities are safe for you. Your doctor will advise you on whether activities like walking or cycling most days of the week can help reduce your symptoms. However, don't exercise if your symptoms are bothering you.
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Consult your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements.
Some over-the-counter and prescription medications, "natural" remedies, and supplements are not good for people with heart failure. For example, painkillers can worsen heart failure.
The article was written by Dr. Hengky Gosal, Sp.PD-KKV, FINASIM (Internist - Cardiovascular Consultant at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).