Congestive heart failure is a medical problem in which the heart doesn't circulate enough blood to the body. Symptoms include shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue, swelling, poor appetite and trouble concentrating. Other symptoms include wheezing, coughing and chest pain. Fortunately, congestive heart failure can be effectively managed.
Coronary Heart Disease
The Mayo Clinic indicates that coronary heart disease is the most common cause of congestive heart failure. In coronary heart disease, the small blood vessels supplying the heart become plugged with cholesterol.
Symptoms of coronary artery disease include chest pain. This particular pain can be squeezing or heavy in nature and start when exercising or stressed, according to MedlinePlus.
Coronary heart disease results from atherosclerosis, a condition in which the heart's blood vessels become narrowed due to the accumulation of plaque in the arteries.
Medications such as nitrates, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers and statins are just some medications used to treat congestive heart failure. Sometimes, limiting salt intake, eating healthfully and getting regular exercise can help manage coronary heart disease symptoms. Surgery and certain procedures such as angioplasty and minimally invasive heart surgery can also be performed to manage coronary heart disease.
Hypertension
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, can also lead to congestive heart failure. MedlinePlus says that hypertension is a condition in which there is a high amount of force against the blood vessels.
Symptoms of hypertension include chest pain, tiredness, confusion, visual problems and tiredness. Other symptoms of hypertension include an irregular heartbeat, nosebleeds and buzzing in the ears.
Risk factors for hypertension include obesity, smoking and diabetes. Hypertension can also be due to anxiety, stress, medications such as corticosteroids, pain and obesity.
Treatment for hypertension involves taking such medications as alpha-blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, vasodilators and angiotensin receptor blockers.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy can also lead to congestive heart failure. The Mayo Clinic says that cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes thick or lacks movement. Not enough blood is then pumped to the body.
Symptoms of cardiomyopathy include dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, stomach bloating and breathlessness.
Treating cardiomyopathy involves taking such drugs as angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers and beta blockers. Sometimes, taking a diuretic (water pill) or getting a heart transplant may be necessary.
