Heart failure occurs when the heart loses its ability to pump enough blood to the rest of the body. This often occurs because of lifestyle choices, such as being overweight, smoking, not getting enough exercise and not eating a healthy diet. Heart failure does not only occur in the elderly but can occur in younger adults as well.
Types of Complications
There are multiple complications that can occur with heart failure, including kidney damage, heart valve problems, liver damage, heart attack, stroke and death. Kidney damage can occur because there isn't enough blood reaching the kidneys. If the condition is not treated, the kidneys can go into failure. Heart valve damage occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood through the body. Liver damage can occur because of the amount of fluid pressure that is put on the liver. Blood clots can form, causing a heart attack or stroke in people with heart failure. Since the heart is not functioning properly and not getting enough blood to the body, the person can die.
Signs and Symptoms
In 2010, the Mayo Clinic published symptoms of heart failure that include chest pain, fluid buildup in legs, feet and ankles, shortness of breath, cough that produces white or pinkish mucus and lack of appetite. Having trouble concentrating or staying alert are also signs that a person could have heart failure. It is important to see a doctor when a person has any of these symptoms.
Diagnosis
According to the American Heart Association, a physical exam will be done on the patient, and tests such as blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, electrocardiograms and stress tests may be done to rule out other diseases and to determine if the patient has heart failure. It is important for the patient to take any medications to the appointment and to be open with the doctor. This will help ensure the best possible care.
Treatment
According to the American Heart Association, there is no cure for heart disease, but the side effects and complications can often be treated. The doctor will develop a care plan that is specific to the patient's condition and needs. Treatments usually include a combination of lifestyle changes, medications and surgery. Lifestyle changes include eating a low-fat diet and becoming physically active. Medications are often used to treat high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Surgery is done either as a last resort or when the doctor finds a problem that can be fixed, such as a blocked artery.
Prognosis
Patients that develop complications from heart failure can be treated and may survive. The patient's prognosis depends on his current state of health, the type of complication he has developed and his age, according to the Mayo Clinic. Complications of heart failure can be so severe and immediate that they can result in the patient's death. According to the 2010 statistics published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in five people who are diagnosed with heart failure will die within one year.
