Understanding Heart Failure | Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Types of Heart Failure

Left-Sided Heart Failure
The most common type, where the left ventricle fails to pump blood properly.
Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid retention.
Right-Sided Heart Failure
Occurs when the right ventricle cannot pump blood efficiently to the lungs.
Symptoms include swelling in the legs, abdomen, and fluid buildup.
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
A condition where the heart’s ability to pump blood is severely weakened, causing fluid buildup in the lungs and other organs.
Symptoms of Heart Failure
Shortness of breath, especially during activity or while lying down
Persistent cough or wheezing
Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Extreme fatigue and weakness
Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention

Causes & Risk Factors
Heart failure can result from various underlying conditions, including:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) – Blocked arteries reduce blood supply to the heart.
High blood pressure (Hypertension) – Puts extra strain on the heart over time.
Diabetes – Increases the risk of heart disease.
Heart attack – Damages heart muscle, weakening its pumping ability.
Lifestyle factors – Smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to heart failure.