Understanding Heart Failure: More Than Just a "Broken Heart"
Understanding Heart Failure: More Than Just a "Broken Heart" Heart failure. The term itself can sound alarming, but it's crucial to understand that it doesn't mean the heart has stopped working entirely. Instead, it signifies that the heart is struggling to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This condition, while serious, can be managed effectively with proper care and lifestyle changes. What is Heart Failure? Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart muscle becomes weakened or damaged. This can result from various underlying conditions, including: * Coronary artery disease: Blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. * High blood pressure: Chronic high blood pressure strains the heart. * Heart attack: Damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack. * Cardiomyopathy: Diseases of the heart muscle. * Valvular heart disease: Problems with the heart valves. * Congenital heart defects: Birth def...