Congestive heart failure is a fatal condition that affects your heart’s ability to adequately pump blood. Because of the progressive weakening of the heart, fluid builds up in the surrounding body tissue. Keep reading to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for congestive heart failure:
Congestive Heart Failure Causes
Diseases that directly affect your arteries or well your heart pumps blood can cause congestive heart failure. These conditions include coronary artery disease, diabetes, heart attack, high blood pressure, hypertension, and obesity. Over time, these health issues cause your heart muscle to weaken, which results in heart failure.
Congestive Heart Failure Symptoms
One of the main symptoms of congestive heart failure is the buildup of fluid throughout the body due to the lack of ability for the heart to pump blood through the arteries. This will cause bloating or swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen. You may experience other symptoms such as:
- Coughing & Wheezing
- Fatigue
- Inability to Exercise
- Nausea
- Nocturia
- Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat
- & More
If you are experiencing any congestive heart failure symptoms, contact us right away. If your symptoms are severe, call 911 for immediate help.
Congestive Heart Failure Available Treatments
There are four stages of congestive heart failure, and each stage requires different medical attention. Our compassionate doctors will run tests to determine how well your heart is functioning. Depending on the results, there are certain lifestyle changes you can make to improve your overall, health-related quality of life. If you’re in stage three or four, a surgical procedure or medication may be necessary.
We understand that this is a scary, emotional time. Our compassionate doctors want to take you by the hand and help you on this health journey. We would be honored to help you through this time. Contact us to schedule an appointment.