Congestive heart failure is caused by the heart no longer being able to efficiently and effectively pump blood throughout the body. This causes fluid to accumulate in the lungs, which is why this kind of heart failure is termed "congestive" heart failure, as it leads to lung congestion. The severity of the disease depends on how weak the heart is.
Lifestyle Changes
One of the most commonly recommended ways of treating congestive heart failure is through some basic lifestyle changes. HealthScout notes that patients should avoid caffeine and tobacco, because they can tax an already strained heart. Patients should also get plenty of rest, avoid stress and exercise (assuming their hearts are healthy enough for exercise). Avoiding sodium is also important because salt intake can cause the body to retain more fluids.
Medications
Most pharmaceutical treatments for congestive heart failure are medications for high blood pressure. According to MayoClinic.com, congestive heart failure can be treated using diuretics, which are drugs that target the hormone angiotensin (including angiotensin II receptor blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors), as well as beta blockers. Digitalis is another medication that can be used to strengthen the contractions of the heart.
Treatment of Underlying Conditions
The American Heart Association notes that if the congestive heart failure can be attributed to a distinct defect or cardiovascular problem, then the heart failure can be relieved by taking care of the underlying condition. A faulty heart valve, for example, can lead to congestive heart failure. Heart valve replacement can fix the heart failure. Other repairable causes include coronary artery disease, which can be fixed with a coronary bypass.
Cardiac Devices
MayoClinic.com notes that congestive heart failure can also be treated using implantable devices. Implantable defibrillators, for example, can keep the heart beating according to a regular rhythm. Biventricular pacemakers can also be implanted in order to make sure that both ventricles of the heart beat in unison (making the heart more efficient). Heart pumps can also be put into the chest or abdomen to assist the heart as it pumps.
Transplant
In severe cases of congestive heart failure, a heart transplant may be an option. Heart transplants are a last resort treatment and should only be used when the heart failure is life-threatening and when no other treatment has proved effective. Transplant surgeries are expensive, dangerous and are not suitable for all patients.
