Congestive Heart Failure Treatment

Congestive Heart Failure also known as CHF or commonly referred to as heart failure is a state where the heart is not able to pump enough blood to the body’s organs. The heart keeps functioning however, but not as it should. This is a really severe health condition that could be created by a variety of different things.

Reasons
There are a number of different irregularities that could induce an individual to enter cardiac arrest. The main reasons for a developing CHF condition:

A past heart attack or myocardial infarction that caused tissue scaring that inturn impacts the hearts functions.
High blood pressure.
Narrowed arteries or otherwise called coronary artery disease that provides the heart with blood.
Heart valve disease that has actually been caused by Rheumatic fever or numerous other reasons.
Genetic heart defects. Heart irregularities that have existed from birth.
Cardiomyopathy – This is a condition of the heart muscle.
Endocarditis or Myocarditis. Infection of the heart muscle or heart valves.

Swelling is usually a good indication of congestive heart failure.  As the heart pumps, blood to the body slows, the blood in the veins that is returning to the heart starts to pool.  Swelling may follow. CHF also affects the kidneys capacity to remove sodium; therefore, causing the patient to keep water which raises the swelling. You will often observe the swelling much more so in the extremities, feet and legs, as they are the farthest from the heart and there needs to be increased pressure for the blood to return up to the heart itself.

Treating CHF
You will need to see a medical professional to diagnose your condition. They would advise on a program of treatments.

Medications may be prescribed and an exercise regime recommended.   Your diet can also have an effect – check this out for Nutritional information.

An assortment of medicines is generally recommended to a patient that has experienced CHF.  Diuretics, ACE preventions and Beta blockers are just a few that you could possibly be prescribed. You may have to change your daily schedule, rest more often, assess your diet and plan an exercise routine you are comfortable with.

Most individuals who experience CHF can be treated without surgery. In rare instances, when the heart is so badly damaged a heart transplant may be considered.  Depending upon the reason for the patient’s congestive heart failure will  determine the therapy that will be recommended.  If the CHF was due to a troublesome valve, surgery may be considered for a valve replacement.

Ultimately, heart problems are very serious and you need to discuss with your doctor to determine the best way forward. If you are having problematic breathing or experiencing swelling, especially in your feet and legs, contact your doctor as quickly as possible.