This is a condition where the heart has trouble working effectively and therefore cannot supply enough blood to all parts of the body. It can be caused by high blood pressure, a heart rate that is too fast or too slow, heart valve problems or with the heart muscle itself.

Symptoms of Heart Failure

• Breathlessness at night
• Breathlessness when walking
• Tiredness
• Difficulty exercising
• Fluid retention especially in the feet & ankles

Heart Failure can follow immediately after a problem or injury affects the heart, but more commonly it develops months or years later. Once initiated, the cardiovascular system may be unable to carry out its functions adequately. In general, heart failure is a progressive disorder which can begin with any number of culprits and deteriorate if left untreated.

It can be said that Heart Failure is a cumulative consequence of all insults to the heart over someone's life.

The prevalence of heart failure approximately DOUBLES with each decade of life. As people live longer, the occurrence of heart failure rises, as well as other conditions which complicate its treatment. Even when symptoms are absent or controlled, impaired heart function implies a reduced duration of survival. Fortunately, many factors which can prevent heart failure and improve outcome are known and can be applied at any stage. 

People who have heart failure can live longer and more active lives if it’s diagnosed early and they follow their treatment plans. For most, treatment includes medicines and lifestyle measures.