What is heart failure?

Reviewed by Interventional Cardiologist Dr Lifa Dhlamini Melomed Richards Bay

1. UNDERSTANDING HEART FAILURE

What it is
Heart failure means the heart is not functioning as well as it should. It can result from various conditions such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or other heart conditions.

Symptoms
Common symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, swollen legs and ankles, and rapid or irregular heartbeat.

2. RISK FACTORS
Age
The risk increases as people get older. Lifestyle Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute. Health conditions Conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and hypertension are significant risk factors.

3. PREVENTION
Heathy diet
Eat fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt and saturated fats. Regular exercise Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Regular check-ups Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly.

4. LIVING WITH HEART FAILURE
Medication management
Take prescribed medications as directed and understand their purpose. Lifestyle adjustments Make necessary changes in diet, exercise, and daily routines to manage symptoms effectively. Support systems Engage family and friends for emotional support and consider joining support groups.

5. WHEN TO SEEK HELP
Be aware of worsening symptoms like increased shortness of breath, weight gain from fluid retention, or extreme fatigue and seek medical attention promptly.

6. EDUCATION AND AWARENESS
Support community programmes that raise awareness about heart health and encourage discussions about heart disease prevention. By promoting awareness, encouraging healthy lifestyles and ensuring access to medical care, the public can play a significant role in managing and preventing heart failure.