Chronic Heart Failure: Is It the Same as Heart Failure?

Chronic heart dysfunction is not always equivalent to heart failure. Chronic heart dysfunction primarily results from various heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, or myocarditis, which cause damage to heart function and lead to impaired cardiac performance. Heart failure only occurs when this condition progresses to a certain stage—specifically, when the heart reaches a decompensated state.

Understanding Heart Failure

Heart failure refers to the clinical manifestation of chronic heart dysfunction during its decompensation phase. In the earlier stages of chronic heart dysfunction, patients may not experience symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest discomfort. However, once the condition advances to heart failure, individuals may begin to notice symptoms like chest tightness, palpitations, breathlessness, fatigue, and weakness.

Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help

It is important to be aware of warning signs such as chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, or persistent fatigue. These could indicate the onset of heart failure. If heart failure is suspected, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications and manage the condition effectively.