Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is implicated in about 250,000 deaths each year, either as the primary cause or a contributing factor. About 550,000 new cases of CHF are diagnosed in the United States every year. Of these, about half will die from this condition within five years of diagnosis.

CHF occurs when your heart can’t pump enough blood to meet the needs of your body. A normal heart has a pumping capacity, technically known as an ejection fraction, of 50 to 60 percent. This is the percentage of blood pumped out of a filled ventricle with each heartbeat. With CHF, you might drop down to only 10 percent.

Causes of CHF can include coronary artery disease, chronic high blood pressure, alcohol or drug abuse, heart attacks, diabetes, infections, or defects in the heart valves.

Many of the causes can be treated or overcome. 

Referral to Cardiologist for comprehensive evaluation and assessment. A cardiologist will determine the extent of your problem and what might be causing it. Then a treatment plan will be designed for you.

Resynchronization therapy. If your condition warrants, your physician (a surgeon or cardiologist) might implant a pacemaker or defibrillator to help you maintain a regular heart rhythm and to avoid sudden cardiac arrest by shocking your heart when it begins to beat erratically.

Education. 

Exercise and diet. You’ll get diet plans that will help you lower your blood pressure and minimize strain on your heart.

Medication.

Goal Setting.

Need a referral to a cardiologist? Call 913-596-7224.