Congestive Heart Failure
Johns Creek Congestive Heart Failure Treatment
Congestive heart failure is a condition where the heart does not pump blood as well as it should. It can occur when the heart muscle is too weak, or when another defect prevents it from circulating blood properly. Symptoms of congestive heart failure can vary in severity but tend to get worse over time.
Causes
CHF is more likely to occur in people who have other conditions that weaken the heart. The risk is also increased by several lifestyle factors that are bad for the heart including:
- Congenital heart defects – can appear early in children and infants
- High blood pressure or cholesterol
- Obesity
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and coronary heart disease
- Other cardiovascular conditions
- Heart infection
- Reduced kidney function
- A history of heart attacks
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Abuse of alcohol or drugs
- Smoking
- Older age
Symptoms
Common symptoms of CHF include:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- A persistent, unexplained cough
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, abdomen, or hands
- Feeling tired
Testing
An HVC cardiologist will perform a physical exam that may involve listening to the heart for abnormal heart rhythms. They may also order other diagnostic tests, including:
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
- Echocardiogram
- Stress test
- Blood tests
- MRI
- Cardiac catheterization
Congestive Heart Failure Treatment
Treatment for hypertension depends on several risk factors such as severity, and associated risks for developing cardiovascular disease or stroke. Your doctor may suggest some lifestyle changes, such as exercise or a change in diet if blood pressure is only slightly elevated and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease is considered to be small. If blood pressure is moderately high and the doctors believe the risk of developing cardiovascular disease during the next ten years is above 20 percent, the doctor will probably prescribe medication and advised on lifestyle changes. If blood pressure levels are 180/110 mmHg or higher, the doctor will refer the individual to a specialist.