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.