Heart failure is the pathophysiologic state in which the heart. Heart failure, also called congestive heart failure. Heart failure is a progressive disorder in which damage to the heart causes weakening of the cardiovascular system. Heart failure develops over time as the pumping of the heart grows weaker. It can affect the right side of the heart only or both the left and right sides of the heart. Most cases involve both sides of the heart. Heart failure also affects the kidneys' ability to dispose of sodium and water. The retained water increases the edema. Heart failure may be caused by myocardial failure but may also occur in the presence of near-normal cardiac function under conditions of high demand. Heart failure always causes circulatory failure, but the converse is not necessarily. Heart failure is a very common condition. About five million people in the United States have heart failure, and it results in about 300,000 deaths each year. Heart failure is caused by various other conditions, such as heart disease, and is most common in those over 65. Heart failure can either be acute (suddenly starts) or chronic (long-term). In chronic heart failure, the main symptom is breathlessness, which may occur during mild physical activity or even when at rest. Other symptoms of chronic heart failure include tiredness and the build up of fluid in the tissues (oedema), particularly the lungs. The ankles swell and the liver becomes enlarged. In severe cases a large amount of fluid builds up within the tummy. Acute heart failure occurs when the heart suddenly stops working properly. Heart failure treatment includes medicines, and heart transplantation. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors drugs help people with heart failure live longer and feel better. ACE inhibitors also gruff some of the effects of hormones that promote salt and water retention. ACE inhibitors can cause an irritating cough in some people. AIIRA work in a similar way to ACE inhibitors but tend to be used in people who have side effects from ACE inhibitors Digoxin (Lanoxin) also referred to as digitalis, increases the strength of your heart muscle contractions. Digoxin reduces heart failure symptoms and improves your ability to live with the condition. Heart pumps mechanical devices, called left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), are implanted into the abdomen and attached to a weakened heart to help it pump. Heart Failure Treatment and Prevention Tips 1. Don’t smoke. 2. Stay active. 3. Limit salt and sodium intake. 4. Lose weight if you are overweight. 5. Get enough rest, including after exercise, eating, or other activities. 6. Don’t cook with salt or add salt to what you are eating. 7. Avoid foods that are naturally high in sodium, like anchovies, meats etc. 8. Use oil and vinegar, rather than bottled dressings, on salads. 9. Eat fresh fruit or sorbet when having dessert. 10 Beta-blockers is particularly useful for those with a history of coronary artery disease
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