Overview
Heart failure is a chronic medical condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body's demands. It occurs when the heart's ability to contract and pump blood is compromised, leading to a variety of symptoms and potential complications including fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention. Heart failure can be caused by various underlying conditions, such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, or heart valve disorders.
Understanding heart failure and its contributing factors is essential for effective management and care. Heart failure is categorized into two main types: systolic heart failure, where the heart has difficulty contracting, and diastolic heart failure, characterized by the heart's inability to relax properly.
Understanding heart failure and its contributing factors is essential for effective management and care. Heart failure is categorized into two main types: systolic heart failure, where the heart has difficulty contracting, and diastolic heart failure, characterized by the heart's inability to relax properly.
Common Heart Failure Symptoms and Signs
Heart failure can manifest in various ways, and its symptoms may include:
- Fatigue: A persistent feeling of tiredness and weakness, even with minimal physical activity.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, particularly during exertion or when lying down.
- Fluid Retention: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet due to the buildup of fluid.
- Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Palpitations or arrhythmias may occur.
- Cough: A persistent cough, often accompanied by white or pink-tinged mucus.
- Reduced Exercise Tolerance: Inability to engage in physical activities previously enjoyed.
- Increased Urination at Night: Frequent nighttime urination.
- Loss of Appetite: A decreased desire to eat.
Treatment and Care
Managing heart failure involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. Depending on the severity of the condition, patient age and other medical conditions, the patient is accessed by the experts at Parvathy Institute Of Cardiac Sciences. Treatment and care may include:
- Medications: Prescription drugs to manage symptoms, reduce fluid retention, and improve heart function.
- Lifestyle Changes: Guidance on dietary modifications, exercise, weight management, and sodium restriction to enhance heart health.
- Fluid Restriction: Monitoring and limiting fluid intake to prevent fluid overload.
- Cardiac Rehabilitation: A structured exercise program and education to improve heart health and overall well-being.
- Device Implantation: Procedures to implant devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) to regulate heart rhythms.
- Surgical Interventions: In some cases, heart transplant or ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation may be considered.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to assess the effectiveness of treatment and make necessary adjustments.
When to Consult a Doctor ?
It is advisable to consult a cardiologist or heart failure specialist at PICS (Parvathy Institute of Cardiac Sciences) when:
- You experience symptoms of heart failure, such as persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, or fluid retention.
- You have been diagnosed with heart failure, and you require ongoing management and care.
- You are seeking guidance on lifestyle changes to improve heart health and manage heart failure effectively.
- You need adjustments to your heart failure treatment plan or medications.
- You have a family history of heart failure or are interested in preventive care and early intervention.
Meet The Heart failure Specialist
DR. RAMACHANDRAN P
MBBS., MD, DM (CARDIOLOGY), FNB
Senior Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist
As a Senior Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Ramachandran P is highly qualified with an MBBS, MD, DM (Cardiology), and FNB. His extensive training and experience in interventional cardiology make him a trusted specialist for diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions.
As a Senior Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Ramachandran P is highly qualified with an MBBS, MD, DM (Cardiology), and FNB. His extensive training and experience in interventional cardiology make him a trusted specialist for diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions.
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DR P.V.KARTHIK
MBBS, M.D (INTERNAL MEDICINE), DM (CARDIOLOGY)
Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist
Dr. P.V. Karthik holds the title of Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist. With a dedication to cardiovascular health, Dr. Karthik is known for his exceptional expertise in cardiology, providing comprehensive care to his patients.
Dr. P.V. Karthik holds the title of Consultant and Interventional Cardiologist. With a dedication to cardiovascular health, Dr. Karthik is known for his exceptional expertise in cardiology, providing comprehensive care to his patients.
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Dr. K.S. SARAVANA KRUSHNA RAJA
MBBS, MS, Mch, DrNB
Senior Consultant(Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon)
Dr. K.S. Saravana Krushna Raja, a Senior Consultant Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon, possesses a distinguished academic background with an MBBS, MS, MCh, and DrNB. His expertise in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery is well-regarded, and he is known for providing surgical solutions for cardiac and thoracic issues.
Dr. K.S. Saravana Krushna Raja, a Senior Consultant Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon, possesses a distinguished academic background with an MBBS, MS, MCh, and DrNB. His expertise in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery is well-regarded, and he is known for providing surgical solutions for cardiac and thoracic issues.
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Call +91 98412 98412 for medical emergencies or 044 2238 2248 / +91 98848 99091 to book an appointment.
General (FAQ) For Heart failure
The life expectancy for someone with heart failure varies widely and depends on factors like the severity of the condition, overall health, and treatment. With proper management and lifestyle changes, many people with heart failure can live for many years.
While heart failure is a chronic condition that typically doesn't have a complete cure, it can be effectively managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. Recovery, in the sense of improved symptoms and quality of life, is possible with appropriate treatment.
The four types of heart failure are:
- Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF)
- Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF)
- Heart Failure with Mid-Range Ejection Fraction (HFmrEF)
- Right-sided Heart Failure
Stage 1 heart failure is the early stage, characterized by a high risk of developing heart failure but no symptoms. It is part of the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association classification system.
Heart failure is a chronic condition, and while it may not have a complete cure, it can be managed effectively with medications, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. Treatment aims to improve symptoms, slow the progression, and enhance quality of life.
Two signs of worsening heart failure include increased shortness of breath and persistent swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen. These symptoms may indicate a worsening of the condition and should be promptly addressed with a healthcare provider.
The life expectancy with heart failure varies, and predicting an exact timeframe is challenging. With advancements in treatment and management, some individuals can live for many years with heart failure, particularly if they adhere to recommended therapies and lifestyle changes.
While heart failure may not be entirely stopped, its progression can be slowed, and symptoms can be effectively managed with appropriate medical care, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to prescribed treatments. Early detection and intervention are crucial for better outcomes
