When most people hear the term \”congestive heart failure\” (CHF), they assume it means the heart has stopped working. In reality, the organ continues to work, but is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the demands of the body. This can occur due to one of two circumstances (or, sometimes both). The heart\’s chambers may not be able to fill completely, or one or more chambers may pump (contract) with inadequate force. Both situations result in less oxygen-rich blood for the body.

In some cases, only the right side of the heart is affected. The right-sided chambers are unable to send enough blood to the lungs. Most times, however, both sides are affected.

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute estimates that nearly 300,000 people die each year in the U.S. from CHF. Millions of people currently suffer from the condition. This article will describe its causes and symptoms. We\’ll also explain the health problems that can surface as the condition worsens.

Possible Causes Of Congestive Heart Failure

Although CHF can develop quickly, it usually develops gradually over a long period of time. A frequent cause of the condition is coronary artery disease (CAD). The arteries that deliver blood to the heart become increasingly blocked by plaque deposits. The deposits obstruct the vessels, and reduce the amount of blood that can pass through them. This can eventually cause a myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Another common cause is high blood pressure. When the pressure in the arteries remains high for an extended period, the heart muscle is forced to work harder in order to pump blood through them. The organ will withstand the strain for awhile, but can eventually wear out.

Congestive heart failure can also be caused by an arrhythmia (irregular heart rhythm), defective heart valves, or myocarditis (inflammation of the heart). Each disorder can prevent the heart muscle from meeting the body\’s needs.

How To Identify The Condition

Patients who develop CHF often report shortness of breath and fatigue following physical exertion. These are common signs of the condition. Many people also develop swelling in the abdomen, feet, and legs (called edema). Each of these symptoms indicate that fluid is accumulating in the body.

The patient may also experience difficulty sleeping, a loss of appetite, and a persistent cough. Nausea and vomiting, as well as an inability to concentrate, are also common. These symptoms, especially when observed at the same time, should prompt the patient to visit a hospital for an examination.

Complications Without Treatment

If congestive heart failure is not treated, it can lead to a number of serious health issues. For example, the kidneys may not receive enough oxygen-rich blood from the heart. With time, this can prevent the kidneys from functioning properly. They may even sustain permanent damage.

The liver may suffer damage as the result of fluid accumulation in the body. As fluid builds up, the liver is forced to work harder in order to filter it. Damage caused by the strain can result in scar tissue, limiting the organ\’s ability to function.

A patient with longstanding, untreated heart failure is more susceptible to blood clots in the heart. If the chambers become unable to empty properly – a problem that can be caused by an arrhythmia – the blood may pool. This increases the risk of clot formation.

If blood clots develop in the left-sided chambers of the heart, there is a risk they will break away, and be pumped outward. At that point, the clots are called emboli; they travel with the bloodstream. Emboli that originate in the heart can potentially travel into the coronary arteries or carotid arteries. The former circumstance can lead to a heart attack. The latter can set the stage for a stroke.

Once congestive heart failure develops, it becomes a lifelong affliction. While it is a serious condition, and is often fatal, it can be managed with ongoing treatment.

Visit www.CVTSA.com for more information and click the following link for specific information on cardiac conditions.

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