Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) refers to a complex condition resulting from the structural and/or functional inability of the heart to supply a normal cardiac output to meet metabolic needs. In HF, impaired ventricular filling or ejection of blood leads to fatigue, dyspnea, and fluid retention or edema. Echocardiography can confirm the diagnosis, providing information about the ejection fraction (EF) and the adequacy of ventricular filling and relaxation. Treatment is directed at the removal of excess fluid and decreasing oxygen demand of the heart. Prognosis depends on the underlying cause, compliance with medical therapy, and presence of comorbidities.

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a progressive syndrome characterized by the failure of the heart to maintain the metabolic demands of the body either due to systolic or diastolic dysfunction. Treatment of CHF is centered around lifestyle modifications (salt and fluid restriction, smoking cessation, and weight loss) and pharmacologic management. Acute worsening of heart failure is often secondary to other medical conditions and is managed with aggressive diuresis and interventions to support cardiac and ventilatory functions. Angina is defined as chest pain or discomfort resulting from myocardial ischemia. Therapy for angina is targeted at limiting platelet aggregation and adhesion (with antiplatelet agents), reducing O2 demand (with beta-blockers), reducing preload (with nitrates), and preventing the progression of atherosclerotic disease (using statin therapy), along with the management of comorbidities.

Heart failure refers to the inability of the heart to supply the body with normal cardiac output to meet metabolic needs. Echocardiography can confirm the diagnosis and give information about the ejection fraction. Treatment is directed at the removal of excess fluid and decreasing oxygen demand of the heart. Prognosis depends on the underlying cause, compliance with medical therapy, and presence of comorbidities.