What Is Congestive Heart Failure?

2/14/2025

“Congestive heart failure (CHF), often referred to simply as heart failure, is a chronic condition in which the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is diminished,” mentioned Dr. Levi Rice, general and interventional cardiologist at Lakeside Physicians. “This leads to inadequate blood flow to meet the body’s needs, resulting in a buildup of fluid in the lungs, legs, and other tissues.”

CHF is a serious and progressive condition that requires medical attention and lifestyle management.

Causes of Congestive Heart Failure

CHF develops when the heart becomes too weak or stiff to function properly. Common causes include:

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the heart muscle.
• High Blood Pressure: Over time, increased pressure can strain the heart.
• Heart Attack: Damage to heart muscle can impair its pumping ability.
• Valvular Heart Disease: Faulty heart valves can lead to inefficient blood flow.
• Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle, often from genetic factors, infections, or alcohol abuse.
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms can reduce pumping efficiency.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

CHF symptoms can vary depending on the stage and severity of the condition but often include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or lying flat.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Swelling (edema) in the legs, ankles, and feet.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Persistent coughing or wheezing, often with white or pink-tinged mucus.
• Sudden weight gain from fluid retention.

Types of Heart Failure:

• Left-Sided Heart Failure: The left ventricle fails to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs.
• Right-Sided Heart Failure: The right ventricle cannot pump blood effectively, causing fluid to accumulate in the lower body.
• Biventricular Heart Failure: Both sides of the heart are affected.

Treatment and Management

While CHF is a chronic condition, treatment can help improve quality of life and slow progression:

• Medications: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, and other drugs can manage symptoms and improve heart function.
• Lifestyle Changes: A low-sodium diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing weight are critical.
• Medical Devices: Pacemakers or implantable defibrillators may be used to regulate heart rhythms.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, procedures like coronary bypass surgery or heart transplants may be necessary.

“Congestive heart failure is a complex condition requiring a diverse approach to treatment and management,” states Dr. Michael Ibe, general and interventional cardiologist at Lakeside Physicians. “Early diagnosis and adherence to medical recommendations can help individuals live longer, healthier lives despite the challenges of CHF.”

For more information about congestive heart failure or to schedule an appointment with either Dr. Rice or Dr. Ibe, please call (817) 579-3970.

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