The following describes the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of congestive heart failure. For specific information regarding your health and treatment options, please contact your Hurley physician or medical professional.

What is congestive heart failure?

When the heart does not pump a normal amount of blood to the rest of the body’s tissues, congestive heart failure may be the result. In congestive heart failure, pressure in the lungs and heart increases causing the heart muscles to thicken or stretch. As oxygen and other nutrients fail to reach other parts of the body, the kidneys do not remove excess fluid from the body, which then builds up in the feet, ankles, legs, lungs and other organs. The result is a “congestion” throughout the body, which may in turn cause additional problems, such as arrhythmias, or irregularities in the heartbeat. 

What causes congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure can result from a number of conditions that damage heart muscle, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, and cardiomyopathy. Excessive use of alcohol, thyroid conditions, high blood pressure, valvular heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and congenital (at birth) heart disorders may also be contributing factors, alone or in combination with each other.

What are the symptoms of congestive heart failure?

At first, symptoms of congestive heart failure may be so mild that they go unnoticed. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, fainting spells, rapid or irregular heartbeat, swelling of the feet, ankles or legs, or congested lungs. Some patients find it difficult to lie flat for any length of time. Symptoms may be constant, or come and go.

How is congestive heart failure diagnosed?

Your Hurley cardiologist will focus on determining the underlying cause of your congestive heart failure. Your physician will likely conduct a number of tests, including blood tests, x-rays, exercise stress tests, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms (EKG or ECG), and cardiac catheterization, among others.

How is congestive heart failure treated?

Treatment options for congestive heart failure will depend upon the underlying condition that is causing the problem, as well as the severity of the specific symptoms you are experiencing. Initial treatment options, particularly for mild cases, may include lifestyle changes such as appropriate diet and eating habits, and specific low-impact exercise. Medications may be prescribed to reduce fluid retention, improve heart function, and lower pressure in the heart and lungs. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, diuretics and beta blockers. For more serious cases, coronary bypass surgery, heart valve surgery or other surgical procedures may be recommended. Your Hurley cardiologist will review treatment options with you so that, together, you can determine the best course of action.