The condition occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood to the other organs and can be caused by a variety of other problems such as coronary artery disease with which the arteries are narrowed and cannot supply sufficient blood flow to the heart. A past heart attack, leaving scar tissue on the heart muscle reducing its ability to function properly and heart valve disease as a result of rheumatic fever or other illness.
Cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle and congenital (birth) defects of the heart and infection of the heart valves or the muscle itself, as well as high blood pressure can contribute to congestive heart failure. Essentially, the heart does not pump out blood as fast as it is being returned to the heart causing a back up in the system. Organs are left retaining the "used" blood instead of being recycled with a fresh supply.
With the blood unable to flow, freely it frequently causes edema, typically a swelling in the ankles or legs, but the swelling can occur in other areas. Fluid often accumulates in the lungs causing a shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Congestive heart failure can also cause the kidneys to become unable to get rid of sodium and water, which increases the edema. One of the signs of congestive heart failure is a weight gain due to water retention.
To help fight congestive heart failure, typical steps include rest, proper diet, activity modification and drugs. ACE inhibitors along with vasodilators help reduce resistance of blood flow by expanding the blood vessels which helps make the heart's work easier. Beta-blockers help determine how well the left ventricle is pumping (that is the lower left chamber of the heart) and digitalis can help improve the pumping action of the heart. Diuretics are often prescribed to help rid the body of sodium and excess water.
When the physician finds the exact cause of congestive heart failure it should be treated immediately and if possible corrected. For example, if it is determined a bad valve is the main culprit; it can be replaced with a mechanical valve. Many people diagnosed with congestive heart failure can be treated and with the correct supervision by a medical expert can live long, productive lives.
For many years, the common thinking was that when the heart could not longer contract and relax properly, it was irreversible. In recent years, heart experts have found that certain causes of congestive heart failure can be treated and these treatments can help save those suffering from the disease.
The American College of Cardiology has met several times to examine a number of very contentious findings on how to best treat a patient with congestive heart failure. Not every individual is alike so; a treatment that works for one Patient may not be effective on another one. This has left many Patients quite rightly confused over the correct treatment for their cardiovascular state. The experts readily admit that what works for one heart patient may not work for another.
There was a recent study of greater than 2,300 patients where angioplasty-vs-drug therapy comparison proved to be the same. The end result was that no differences in death, nonfatal heart attacks, strokes or hospitalization between patients with "stable" heart illness treated with medication alone vs. those who received drugs plus angioplasty and stenting.
A family doctor realizes that you as a patient comprehend your own body and appreciate your own needs such as diets and activity. A Patients treatment had better be based accordingly to their needs and accessibility of medical procedures. Every patient must reserve the right to be certain what his care will be and what he can do to help avert congestive heart failure. The patient should prepare to build for him or herself a method of action that will end in a healthy lifestyle. Starting with diet and exercises are the two most important things in your life to improve upon to have a healthy heart.
The Patient still has rights over their own body as to the kind of treatment and care they need to have. The Patient must devise a list of what they feel in order to discuss with the doctor the symptoms that they are having. This will help your family doctor in diagnosis of your case and decide upon the treatment and care that is best for you. You must be able to confer with your medical attendant on any type of treatment recommended and ask for a second opinion if you are not just sure that the procedures recommended for you are right.
You can start your own program to help with your position if you find that congestive heart failure is likely or you begin to show symptoms.
Initially, pore over your weight. Are you overweight? Do you require a diet? You probably understand the answers to these questions only too well. A diet method ought to fit your physical needs, which will help you lose weight and keep the weight off too. You shouldn't have to join a group or purchase special food in order to go on a diet. There are adequate diets plans available free on the internet. You had better confirm with your physician in advance of starting diet method.
The next thing that should do is some activity to help lose weight and relieve stress. You can become your own patient and keep track of your vitals, weight loss and any other important factors about yourself. A Patient has the power to control the way that they live their life.
Both D. Cannon & Mark Hargreaves are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
D. Cannon has sinced written about articles on various topics from High Cholesterol, Medical Condition and Heart Conditions. Dustin Cannon writes on a variety of subjects and recommends for more information on the subject.. D. Cannon's top article generates over 5400 views. to your Favourites.
Mark Hargreaves has sinced written about articles on various topics from Tattoo, Cardio Training and Disease & illness. Mark has suffered with a congestive heart problem since 1994 and is now severely disabled. He now maintains a website for anyone who wants information on congestive heart problems.. Mark Hargreaves's top article generates over 27100 views. to your Favourites.