Heart Failure: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What is a common lifestyle factor that contributes to heart failure?

Which of the following symptoms is often associated with heart failure?

What is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the heart's structure and function in heart failure?

What is a type of medication commonly used to treat heart failure?

Which of the following is a key aspect of preventing heart failure?

What is a primary cardiac cause of heart failure?

Which symptom of heart failure is often accompanied by weight gain?

What is the main purpose of a chest X-ray in diagnosing heart failure?

Which medication is commonly used to treat heart failure by reducing blood volume?

What is a key lifestyle change recommended for patients with heart failure?

What is a common blood test used to diagnose heart failure?

Which of the following is a non-cardiac cause of heart failure?

What is a device used to regulate heart rhythm and prevent sudden death in heart failure patients?

Which of the following can help prevent heart failure?

What is a key aspect of diagnosing heart failure?

Causes of Heart Failure

Cardiovascular conditions:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Heart valve problems (e.g., mitral regurgitation)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Cardiomyopathy (dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive)
Lifestyle factors:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
Medical conditions:
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Anemia
- Thyroid disorders
Infections:
- Viral myocarditis
- Bacterial endocarditis

Symptoms of Heart Failure

Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
Fatigue
Swollen legs, ankles, and feet (edema)
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Coughing or wheezing
Chest pain or discomfort
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting

Diagnosis of Heart Failure

Medical history and physical examination
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
Echocardiogram
Chest X-ray
Blood tests:
- B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Electrolyte panel
- Liver function tests (LFTs)
Cardiac catheterization (optional)

Treatment of Heart Failure

Medications:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
- Beta blockers
- Diuretics
- Inotropes
- Aldosterone antagonists
Lifestyle changes:
- Reduce sodium intake
- Increase physical activity
- Manage stress
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
Device therapy:
- Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD)
- Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)
- Ventricular assist device (VAD)
Surgical interventions:
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
- Heart valve repair or replacement
- Heart transplantation

Prevention of Heart Failure

Maintain a healthy lifestyle:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Manage stress
- Get enough sleep
Control underlying conditions:
- Manage hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol
- Treat underlying cardiovascular conditions
Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
Get regular check-ups and monitoring

Understand the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of heart failure, as well as the treatment options and preventive measures. Learn about the various cardiovascular conditions, lifestyle factors, and medical conditions that contribute to heart failure.