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Heart failure is a relatively common yet particularly serious cardiovascular condition. If not detected early and managed with appropriate treatment, it can lead to severe complications and even death.

What is heart failure?

Heart failure is a serious cardiovascular condition in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s metabolic needs. This occurs when the heart or its supporting structures are damaged, impairing function and reducing the ventricles’ ability to fill with or eject blood and oxygen to the rest of the body.

This condition directly affects a patient’s quality of life and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Causes of heart failure 

There are many potential causes of heart failure, with the most common being coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, valvular heart disease, hypertension, myocarditis, diabetes, arrhythmias, dilated cardiomyopathy, hyperthyroidism, and peripartum cardiomyopathy. Lifestyle factors such as frequent alcohol consumption, smoking, or autoimmune disorders may also contribute.

Specifically:

Coronary artery disease: This condition occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits and plaques. As a result, blood and oxygen flow to the heart muscle is reduced, leading to gradual damage and weakened cardiac function.

Valvular heart disease: Valvular disease develops when the heart valves are damaged or become stiff, causing regurgitation or stenosis. This places excessive strain on the heart and reduces its ability to pump blood effectively.

Myocarditis: Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle, most often caused by bacterial or viral infections. It damages the myocardial tissue and reduces the heart’s pumping ability.

Hypertension: Persistently high blood pressure over time can damage blood vessels and organs, including the heart. Chronic hypertension increases cardiac workload, eventually leading to heart failure.

Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes may damage the blood vessels and nerves of the heart muscle, weakening cardiac function and contributing to heart failure.

Congenital valvular defects: Some individuals are born with valve abnormalities. When valves do not function properly, blood flow through the heart is impaired, increasing the risk of heart failure.

Other factors: Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, psychological stress, stimulant use such as cocaine, and aging can also increase the risk of developing heart failure.

Symptoms of heart failure

Heart failure can cause a wide range of symptoms and clinical manifestations, depending on the stage and severity of the disease. The following are some of the most common symptoms of heart failure:

• Fatigue and reduced stamina: One of the most notable symptoms of heart failure is persistent fatigue, decreased exercise tolerance, and reduced ability to carry out daily activities. Patients may feel easily exhausted and lack the energy for routine tasks.
• Shortness of breath: Dyspnea is a common symptom when the heart is not functioning properly. Patients may experience difficulty breathing or breathlessness even with light activities such as climbing stairs or walking short distances.
• Fluid retention (edema): Swelling is often observed in the legs, ankles, hands, and abdomen. This occurs due to congestion in the circulatory system when the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup.
• Chest pain: Chest discomfort or pain may occur in heart failure, particularly when the heart struggles to deliver adequate blood and oxygen to body tissues and organs.
• Irregular heartbeat: Patients may experience arrhythmias, including rapid or abnormal heart rhythms, as another manifestation of heart failure.
• Unexplained weight loss: Some individuals with heart failure may experience unexpected weight loss due to altered metabolism and increased energy expenditure.
• Heart rate abnormalities: Heart rate in patients with heart failure can be either normal or abnormal. While healthy individuals typically have a resting heart rate between 60–90 beats per minute, those with heart failure may exhibit variable and inconsistent heart rates without a defined standard range.

If you experience any of the above symptoms or suspect heart failure, it is essential to consult a physician for a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis of heart failure

The diagnosis of heart failure is typically established through a combination of clinical assessments and diagnostic procedures. The following are commonly used methods:

• Medical history and physical examination: Physicians will perform a preliminary clinical assessment, asking about symptoms, medical history, risk factors, family history, and lifestyle habits.
• Blood tests: Blood tests may include evaluation of lipid levels, cholesterol, blood glucose, inflammatory markers, as well as liver and kidney function indicators.

In addition, blood tests can also help assess the severity of heart failure by measuring biomarkers such as B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and troponin levels.

• Echocardiography: Echocardiography uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart. It provides information on the size, shape, and function of the heart, including its pumping ability and blood flow through the valves.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart, helping to identify heart rate, rhythm abnormalities, and potential issues such as arrhythmias or myocardial injury.
• Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray allows assessment of the size and shape of the heart and lungs. It can also detect signs of heart failure, such as cardiac enlargement or pulmonary congestion.
• Stress test: A stress test evaluates the heart’s ability to respond to and withstand physical exertion. By monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, and other indicators during exercise, physicians can assess cardiac function under stress conditions.

In addition, other diagnostic tests and procedures—such as genetic screening, cardiac catheterization, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or endoscopy—may be utilized when necessary.

Importantly, the diagnosis of heart failure relies on a comprehensive evaluation that integrates test results with clinical findings. Therefore, consultation with a physician is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment of heart failure 

Can heart failure be cured? According to experts, heart failure can be completely reversed if detected early and managed appropriately with the most suitable treatment methods from the outset.

The primary goals of heart failure treatment are to control symptoms, prevent disease progression, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications. Common treatment approaches include:

Medication

 Physicians may prescribe medications to relieve symptoms and improve cardiac function. Commonly used drugs include:

• Heart failure medications: Such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta blockers, and aldosterone receptor antagonists (ARBs).
• Antiarrhythmic drugs: Prescribed to regulate heart rhythm, including beta blockers or rhythm-control agents such as anticholinergics or electrolyte modulators.
• Diuretics: Used to reduce excess fluid and salt in the body, thereby relieving fluid retention and associated symptoms.

Lifestyle modifications and disease management 

Adopting lifestyle changes and effective disease management strategies are essential in the treatment of heart failure. These include:

• Following a healthy, balanced diet with reduced sodium and fat intake.
• Limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.
• Engaging in regular physical activity as advised by a physician.
• Managing stress and psychological strain.

Management of comorbid conditions

Heart failure is often associated with other conditions such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease. Controlling and treating these comorbidities is an essential component of heart failure management.

Other treatment options 

In severe cases, physicians may recommend advanced therapies such as heart transplantation, mechanical circulatory support devices (e.g., ventricular assist devices), or even cardiac surgery.

The management of heart failure must be individualized according to each patient’s health status and specific risk factors. Continuous monitoring and guidance from a cardiology specialist are essential to optimize treatment.

Life expectancy in heart failure is a major concern for many patients. Heart failure can be effectively treated if diagnosed early. However, delayed detection—often due to lack of regular cardiac check-ups—can make management more difficult.

On average, patients diagnosed with heart failure have an estimated survival of about five years. Therefore, regular cardiovascular screening is strongly recommended to ensure early detection, timely intervention, and improved survival outcomes.

The Cardiology Department at Hong Ngoc General Hospital is a trusted destination for cardiovascular care. With a team of highly qualified specialists and state-of-the-art equipment, the department provides accurate diagnosis of heart failure and delivers the most effective treatment plans tailored to each patient.

🔗 Watch more here

Register for consultation and examination with cardiology specialists at Hong Ngoc General Hospital here:

How to prevent heart failure? 

Preventive strategies play an important role in reducing the risk of heart failure and protecting cardiovascular health. The following measures can help prevent heart failure and, at the same time, lower the risk of other serious conditions:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Limit the intake of fats, salt, and sugar.
• Increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber-rich foods, and healthy protein sources such as fish, poultry, nuts, beans, and low-fat dairy products.
• Follow a balanced diet and maintain a healthy body weight.
• Reduce or quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, including activities such as brisk walking, light jogging, swimming, cycling, or participating in fitness classes.
• Consult with a physician to determine the most appropriate level of exercise based on individual health status.
• Manage stress effectively
• Learn to cope with daily stress and pressure through practices such as yoga, meditation, light exercise, or recreational activities.

Control other risk factors

• Keep blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels within the normal range.
• Manage underlying conditions such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, or kidney disease.

Schedule regular health check-ups

Undergo routine health screenings to monitor key indicators such as blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol levels, and cardiac function.

Avoid harmful exposures

Minimize exposure to environmental pollutants, toxic chemicals, and secondhand smoke.

Adhere to prescribed treatment

If you have been diagnosed with cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, valvular disease, or arrhythmias, strictly follow your prescribed treatment plan and monitor disease progression.

Note: The information provided in this article by Hong Ngoc General Hospital is for reference only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Patients should not self-medicate. For an accurate assessment of your condition, please visit a hospital for direct examination, diagnosis, and treatment planning by a physician.

Follow the official fanpage of Hong Ngoc General Hospital for more useful health information.

Heart failure is a relatively common yet particularly serious cardiovascular condition. If not detected early and managed with appropriate treatment, it can lead to severe complications and even death.

What is heart failure?

Heart failure is a serious cardiovascular condition in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s metabolic needs. This occurs when the heart or its supporting structures are damaged, impairing function and reducing the ventricles’ ability to fill with or eject blood and oxygen to the rest of the body.

This condition directly affects a patient’s quality of life and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Causes of heart failure 

There are many potential causes of heart failure, with the most common being coronary artery disease, ischemic heart disease, valvular heart disease, hypertension, myocarditis, diabetes, arrhythmias, dilated cardiomyopathy, hyperthyroidism, and peripartum cardiomyopathy. Lifestyle factors such as frequent alcohol consumption, smoking, or autoimmune disorders may also contribute.

Specifically:

Coronary artery disease: This condition occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the buildup of fatty deposits and plaques. As a result, blood and oxygen flow to the heart muscle is reduced, leading to gradual damage and weakened cardiac function.

Valvular heart disease: Valvular disease develops when the heart valves are damaged or become stiff, causing regurgitation or stenosis. This places excessive strain on the heart and reduces its ability to pump blood effectively.

Myocarditis: Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle, most often caused by bacterial or viral infections. It damages the myocardial tissue and reduces the heart’s pumping ability.

Hypertension: Persistently high blood pressure over time can damage blood vessels and organs, including the heart. Chronic hypertension increases cardiac workload, eventually leading to heart failure.

Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes may damage the blood vessels and nerves of the heart muscle, weakening cardiac function and contributing to heart failure.

Congenital valvular defects: Some individuals are born with valve abnormalities. When valves do not function properly, blood flow through the heart is impaired, increasing the risk of heart failure.

Other factors: Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol use, psychological stress, stimulant use such as cocaine, and aging can also increase the risk of developing heart failure.

Symptoms of heart failure

Heart failure can cause a wide range of symptoms and clinical manifestations, depending on the stage and severity of the disease. The following are some of the most common symptoms of heart failure:

• Fatigue and reduced stamina: One of the most notable symptoms of heart failure is persistent fatigue, decreased exercise tolerance, and reduced ability to carry out daily activities. Patients may feel easily exhausted and lack the energy for routine tasks.
• Shortness of breath: Dyspnea is a common symptom when the heart is not functioning properly. Patients may experience difficulty breathing or breathlessness even with light activities such as climbing stairs or walking short distances.
• Fluid retention (edema): Swelling is often observed in the legs, ankles, hands, and abdomen. This occurs due to congestion in the circulatory system when the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup.
• Chest pain: Chest discomfort or pain may occur in heart failure, particularly when the heart struggles to deliver adequate blood and oxygen to body tissues and organs.
• Irregular heartbeat: Patients may experience arrhythmias, including rapid or abnormal heart rhythms, as another manifestation of heart failure.
• Unexplained weight loss: Some individuals with heart failure may experience unexpected weight loss due to altered metabolism and increased energy expenditure.
• Heart rate abnormalities: Heart rate in patients with heart failure can be either normal or abnormal. While healthy individuals typically have a resting heart rate between 60–90 beats per minute, those with heart failure may exhibit variable and inconsistent heart rates without a defined standard range.

If you experience any of the above symptoms or suspect heart failure, it is essential to consult a physician for a thorough evaluation and accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis of heart failure

The diagnosis of heart failure is typically established through a combination of clinical assessments and diagnostic procedures. The following are commonly used methods:

• Medical history and physical examination: Physicians will perform a preliminary clinical assessment, asking about symptoms, medical history, risk factors, family history, and lifestyle habits.
• Blood tests: Blood tests may include evaluation of lipid levels, cholesterol, blood glucose, inflammatory markers, as well as liver and kidney function indicators.

In addition, blood tests can also help assess the severity of heart failure by measuring biomarkers such as B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and troponin levels.

• Echocardiography: Echocardiography uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart. It provides information on the size, shape, and function of the heart, including its pumping ability and blood flow through the valves.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart, helping to identify heart rate, rhythm abnormalities, and potential issues such as arrhythmias or myocardial injury.
• Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray allows assessment of the size and shape of the heart and lungs. It can also detect signs of heart failure, such as cardiac enlargement or pulmonary congestion.
• Stress test: A stress test evaluates the heart’s ability to respond to and withstand physical exertion. By monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, and other indicators during exercise, physicians can assess cardiac function under stress conditions.

In addition, other diagnostic tests and procedures—such as genetic screening, cardiac catheterization, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or endoscopy—may be utilized when necessary.

Importantly, the diagnosis of heart failure relies on a comprehensive evaluation that integrates test results with clinical findings. Therefore, consultation with a physician is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and the development of an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment of heart failure 

Can heart failure be cured? According to experts, heart failure can be completely reversed if detected early and managed appropriately with the most suitable treatment methods from the outset.

The primary goals of heart failure treatment are to control symptoms, prevent disease progression, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications. Common treatment approaches include:

Medication

 Physicians may prescribe medications to relieve symptoms and improve cardiac function. Commonly used drugs include:

• Heart failure medications: Such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta blockers, and aldosterone receptor antagonists (ARBs).
• Antiarrhythmic drugs: Prescribed to regulate heart rhythm, including beta blockers or rhythm-control agents such as anticholinergics or electrolyte modulators.
• Diuretics: Used to reduce excess fluid and salt in the body, thereby relieving fluid retention and associated symptoms.

Lifestyle modifications and disease management 

Adopting lifestyle changes and effective disease management strategies are essential in the treatment of heart failure. These include:

• Following a healthy, balanced diet with reduced sodium and fat intake.
• Limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking.
• Engaging in regular physical activity as advised by a physician.
• Managing stress and psychological strain.

Management of comorbid conditions

Heart failure is often associated with other conditions such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease. Controlling and treating these comorbidities is an essential component of heart failure management.

Other treatment options 

In severe cases, physicians may recommend advanced therapies such as heart transplantation, mechanical circulatory support devices (e.g., ventricular assist devices), or even cardiac surgery.

The management of heart failure must be individualized according to each patient’s health status and specific risk factors. Continuous monitoring and guidance from a cardiology specialist are essential to optimize treatment.

Life expectancy in heart failure is a major concern for many patients. Heart failure can be effectively treated if diagnosed early. However, delayed detection—often due to lack of regular cardiac check-ups—can make management more difficult.

On average, patients diagnosed with heart failure have an estimated survival of about five years. Therefore, regular cardiovascular screening is strongly recommended to ensure early detection, timely intervention, and improved survival outcomes.

The Cardiology Department at Hong Ngoc General Hospital is a trusted destination for cardiovascular care. With a team of highly qualified specialists and state-of-the-art equipment, the department provides accurate diagnosis of heart failure and delivers the most effective treatment plans tailored to each patient.

🔗 Watch more here

Register for consultation and examination with cardiology specialists at Hong Ngoc General Hospital here:

How to prevent heart failure? 

Preventive strategies play an important role in reducing the risk of heart failure and protecting cardiovascular health. The following measures can help prevent heart failure and, at the same time, lower the risk of other serious conditions:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Limit the intake of fats, salt, and sugar.
• Increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber-rich foods, and healthy protein sources such as fish, poultry, nuts, beans, and low-fat dairy products.
• Follow a balanced diet and maintain a healthy body weight.
• Reduce or quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, including activities such as brisk walking, light jogging, swimming, cycling, or participating in fitness classes.
• Consult with a physician to determine the most appropriate level of exercise based on individual health status.
• Manage stress effectively
• Learn to cope with daily stress and pressure through practices such as yoga, meditation, light exercise, or recreational activities.

Control other risk factors

• Keep blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels within the normal range.
• Manage underlying conditions such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, or kidney disease.

Schedule regular health check-ups

Undergo routine health screenings to monitor key indicators such as blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol levels, and cardiac function.

Avoid harmful exposures

Minimize exposure to environmental pollutants, toxic chemicals, and secondhand smoke.

Adhere to prescribed treatment

If you have been diagnosed with cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, valvular disease, or arrhythmias, strictly follow your prescribed treatment plan and monitor disease progression.

Note: The information provided in this article by Hong Ngoc General Hospital is for reference only and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Patients should not self-medicate. For an accurate assessment of your condition, please visit a hospital for direct examination, diagnosis, and treatment planning by a physician.

Follow the official fanpage of Hong Ngoc General Hospital for more useful health information.