Heart failure is a condition where the heart cannot pump adequate blood volume to the rest of the body. According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, right-sided heart failure is when the heart cannot fill with enough blood. Left-sided heart failure is when the heart cannot supply blood to the body with enough force. In some cases, both problems exist. Symptoms of heart failure include fluid buildup and swelling, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Heart failure is mainly caused by diseases that damage the heart.
Heart Disease
Heart disease occurs when plaque, made up of cholesterol, calcium and fat, builds up in the arteries. This is known as atherosclerosis. It results in narrowing of the arteries which reduces blood flow and may deprive the heart and body of oxygen. Over time, this can lead to a partial obstruction that may cause chest pain or a full blockage, leading to a heart attack. Heart disease also increases the chance for developing blood clots, which can also obstruct the arteries. Heart disease contributes to a weakened heart muscle, which may cause congestive heart failure.
Diabetes
Diabetes is an autoimmune disease that causes high glucose levels in the body. A healthy person produces the pancreatic hormone, insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. A person with diabetes either does not produce adequate supplies of insulin or develops insulin resistance. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to serious complications, including heart disease. It can also result in a weakened heart muscle, leading to heart failure.
Hypertension
Blood pressure is the force exerted on the blood vessels by blood. It is evaluated by measuring systolic and diastolic pressure. Systolic pressure measures the pressure when the heart contracts. Diastolic pressure measures the pressure when the heart relaxes. Blood pressure is determined by size of the artery, stress and lifestyle. If blood pressure is consistently high, meaning greater than 130/80 mm/Hg, it is known as hypertension. High blood pressure is a risk factor for the development of diabetes and heart disease, among other health-related issues. Hypertension can weaken the heart and result in heart failure.
Cardiomyopathy
According to Medline Plus, cardiomyopathy is weakening of the heart muscle or a change in structure. Typically, the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently or function properly. Consequently, the heart has to work harder to supply enough blood to the body. Cardiomyopathy may stem from various causes, including hypertension, infection nutritional deficiencies, genetic defects or heart disease. Over time, heart failure may develop.
Congenital Heart Defects
The American Heart Association states that congenital heart defects are structural problems stemming from abnormal formation of the heart or major blood vessels. At least 18 known congenital heart defects exist, ranging from malformations to holes in the heart. Having a heart defect puts an individual at a greater risk of developing subsequent heart conditions. Heart failure may arise if the heart is unable to move blood throughout the rest of the body.
