Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart (Heart health) becomes weak and is unable to pump blood properly. Sometimes, CHF gets worse, which is called Worsening Heart Failure (WHF). It is very important to recognize its early symptoms and get timely treatment, so that you avoid frequent visits to the hospital and can also save life from getting worse. In such a situation, on the occasion of World Heart Day 2024 being celebrated on 29 September, we have had a special conversation with renowned cardiologist Dr. Praveen Chandra, Chairman, Interventional Cardiology, Medanta Gurugram, Delhi. Let's know.

What is chronic heart failure?

When our heart is unable to pump blood with full force due to heart disease, it is called chronic heart failure. This disease is often caused by other diseases like high blood pressure or diabetes. Sometimes this disease can worsen despite medicines, which is called worsening heart failure. In this condition, the patient may have to be hospitalized again and again.

Remember, ignoring the early symptoms of heart disease can be dangerous. By consulting a doctor on time, this disease can be controlled and hospitalization can be avoided. When people say that their heart is stopping working, it usually means chronic heart failure. 'Chronic' means that the disease progresses slowly, not suddenly. Many people are surprised to know that they have this disease, because its initial symptoms are very mild.

Do not take fatigue and shortness of breath lightly

Dr. Praveen Chandra says, “I remember the case of an elderly woman. She could not believe that her fatigue and shortness of breath while walking could be related to heart failure. However, when examined, she was found to have early symptoms of heart failure.”

Causes of Chronic Heart Failure

Dr. explains that, "Our heart pumps blood throughout the body. When this function gradually weakens, chronic heart failure can occur. Due to long-term high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, heart attack or problems in the heart valve, the heart has to work harder, which can lead to this disease. Apart from this, diabetes and kidney disease can also weaken the heart."

Symptoms of Chronic Heart Failure

Chronic heart failure develops slowly and initially its symptoms are mild, such as fatigue. Therefore, people ignore them. When the disease progresses, the lungs or other parts of the body get filled with water. This causes swollen ankles, shortness of breath and cough. The biggest mistake is that people go to the doctor only after the symptoms become severe.

Can the disease worsen even after treatment?

Dr. Praveen Chandra says that the condition of chronic heart failure can be managed after treatment. However, it is important to know that even after standard therapy, chronic heart failure can turn into 'worsening heart failure' in 1 out of 6 patients. I had a 70-year-old elderly patient who had the problem of chronic heart failure. He was very alert about his health. He used to take all his medicines daily, had a healthy diet and went for a walk daily. One day he came to me and told me that his weight had suddenly increased by three kilos in three days. He was also having trouble breathing. After examination, he was given intravenous therapy for a few days. This meant that his chronic heart failure had worsened and turned into worsening heart failure.

In case of worsening heart failure, patients require frequent intravenous treatment or have to be hospitalized. Over time, the rate of hospitalization increases and the quality of life deteriorates. Earlier, patients with worsening heart failure received the same treatment as patients with chronic heart failure. However, today we have developed advanced therapies that reduce the rate of hospitalization.

What are the signs of worsening heart failure?

Chronic heart failure patients should pay attention to symptoms such as shortness of breath at night, sudden weight gain, loss of appetite, fainting and excessive coughing. These symptoms may indicate the disease is progressing. It is very important to visit a cardiologist regularly so that the disease can be treated before it worsens.

Heart Failure: Can Life Go Back to the Same?

It is very painful to see chronic heart failure turn into congestive heart failure . It is especially painful for a person who is undergoing treatment and is careful about diet and lifestyle. With the help of early diagnosis and advanced therapy, you can avoid frequent hospital visits and make your life better. Just do your best and leave the rest to your cardiologist.