Heart Failure: Causes and Symptoms

Heart failure, often referred to as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently due to long-term uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions. This condition typically develops at the end stage of various heart diseases. Understanding the causes and symptoms of heart failure is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.

Common Causes of Heart Failure

Hypertension

One of the leading causes of heart failure is high blood pressure. When blood pressure remains elevated for a prolonged period, it places excessive strain on the heart. This can lead to hypertensive heart disease, where the heart muscle thickens to cope with the increased workload. If left untreated, this condition can progress to heart failure.

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is another major contributor to heart failure. CAD results in reduced blood flow to the heart muscle, depriving it of oxygen and essential nutrients. Over time, this lack of supply can cause the heart muscle to weaken, undergo structural changes, and eventually fail to function properly.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a type of heart muscle disease where the heart's main pumping chamber, the left ventricle, becomes enlarged and weakened. This condition often has no identifiable cause, but it leads to reduced heart function and can ultimately result in heart failure.

Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve problems, often caused by rheumatic heart disease, can also lead to heart failure. Faulty valves either do not open fully (stenosis) or do not close properly (regurgitation), causing abnormal blood flow and putting extra stress on the heart. Over time, this can lead to heart enlargement and impaired function.

Congenital Heart Defects

Certain heart defects present at birth can significantly increase the risk of developing heart failure. These abnormalities can affect blood flow within the heart and force the heart to work harder, eventually leading to fatigue and fluid buildup in the body.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Heart Failure

Heart failure typically manifests through two types of congestion: pulmonary congestion and systemic congestion. The most common symptom is shortness of breath, which may occur during physical activity or even at rest. Patients may also experience difficulty lying flat at night due to fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Another hallmark of heart failure is swelling in the lower extremities, known as peripheral edema. This fluid retention can also affect other parts of the body, such as the abdomen, where it may cause bloating and discomfort. In more advanced cases, internal organs like the liver and spleen may become enlarged due to congestion, leading to additional complications.

Understanding the causes and symptoms of heart failure is essential for timely medical intervention. If you or a loved one experiences any of these signs, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.