What is heart failure?

Heart failure is simply the medical term we use to describe any condition that results in the heart working less efficiently. Heart failure may arise when the heart has been damaged or weakened. Heart failure may also occur with a strong heart that has trouble filling properly or when the “one way” valves within the heart no longer act appropriately.

Symptoms due to heart failure may remain stable or may progress gradually or rapidly depending on many factors. These can include changes in heart pumping function, adherence to dietary recommendations, medications prescribed, and compliance with taking those medications. Optimal management of patients with heart failure requires a skilled heart failure team, a commitment to lifestyle changes, and adherence to medications given by your care team.

How does the disease progress?

Congestive heart failure is a condition that worsens over time. In the early stages of CHF, the heart tries to compensate for its reduced efficiency by enlarging, increasing its muscle mass and pumping faster. Eventually, the heart cannot keep up with all the needs of the body even by compensating. This causes shortness of breath, loss of energy, and other problems. Many patients first visit a doctor when they experience these symptoms.

Diagnosing congestive heart failure

Only a doctor can diagnose CHF. Different tests are used including echocardiography, chest x-rays, cardiac catheterization, stress and blood tests, as well as other tests. Your doctor will determine the proper tests to examine how well your heart is working and whether or not you have congestive heart failure.

Living with the disease

Congestive heart failure is a progressive, chronic illness for which there is no cure. It is a long-term condition that worsens over time. Although symptoms of the disease can be treated, there is no cure. However, with proper care, people can live many years with congestive heart failure.

Learn more about our Heart Failure Program here.