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CardiovascularICD-10: I50Affects about 6.7 million Americans aged 20 and older

Heart Failure

Also known as: Congestive Heart Failure, CHF

Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition in which the heart cannot pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body's needs. It does not mean the heart has stopped beating, but rather that it is working less effectively. With advances in treatment, many people with heart failure live active lives, though the condition requires ongoing management.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath during activity or when lying flat
Fatigue and weakness
Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Persistent cough or wheezing with pink-tinged phlegm
Increased need to urinate at night
Sudden weight gain from fluid retention
Reduced ability to exercise

Causes

  • Coronary artery disease and prior heart attacks
  • High blood pressure causing the heart to work harder
  • Cardiomyopathy
  • Valvular heart disease
  • Myocarditis
  • Congenital heart defects

Risk Factors

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Previous heart attack
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Excessive alcohol or illicit drug use

Diagnosis

  • Echocardiogram to measure ejection fraction
  • BNP or NT-proBNP blood tests
  • Chest X-ray for heart enlargement and lung fluid
  • ECG to detect rhythm and structural abnormalities
  • Cardiac MRI for detailed imaging

Treatment

  • ACE inhibitors or ARBs (or sacubitril/valsartan for HFrEF)
  • Beta-blockers (carvedilol, metoprolol succinate, bisoprolol)
  • Diuretics to reduce fluid overload
  • SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin)
  • Aldosterone antagonists (spironolactone, eplerenone)
  • Implantable devices (ICD, CRT) or heart transplant for advanced cases

Prevention

  • Control high blood pressure and diabetes
  • Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle with regular exercise
  • Limit sodium intake to less than 2,000 mg daily
  • Avoid excessive alcohol consumption

When to See a Doctor

  • Worsening shortness of breath, especially when lying down
  • Sudden weight gain of 2–3 pounds in a day or 5 pounds in a week
  • Swelling in your legs or abdomen is increasing
  • Chest pain or rapid, irregular heartbeat

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Heart Attack

Cardiovascular

High Blood Pressure

Cardiovascular

Edema

Cardiovascular

Related from the Supplement Library

CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

Strong

Compound · Mitochondrial energy production (ATP)

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Hawthorn Berry

Moderate

Herb · Cardiovascular support and protection

Magnesium Glycinate

Strong

Mineral · Improves sleep quality and onset

These supplements have been studied in relation to Heart Failure. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.