Heart failure is a severe, long-term health condition that can happen at any age. Heart attack as the name suggests does not mean that the heart has stopped functioning.
However, it indicates the inability of the heart to supply blood to the body properly. While heart failure may develop gradually, recognising and understanding the risks early can significantly enhance outcomes.
Here, we discuss the possible risks of heart failure, along with the management tips recommended by the experts.
Understanding heart failure: A brief review
Heart failure also known as cognitive heart failure (CHF), happens when the heart muscle becomes stiff or weakened and cannot fill with or pump blood efficiently. The condition may be on either the left side, the right side or both sides of the heart.
Some common symptoms are as follows:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent cough or wheezing
- Swelling in legs, abdomen or ankles
Significant risk factors for heart failure
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
One of the main reasons for heart failure is prolonged high blood pressure. When your blood pressure is high, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, and this may weaken the heart muscle over time.
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
CAD restricts the coronary arteries, decreasing the flow of blood to the heart. CAD can cause heart attacks, which damage the muscles of the heart and lead to an increased risk of heart failure.
- Diabetes
Diabetic people are at increased risk due to the impact of high blood sugar on blood vessels and heart muscle. Diabetes commonly occurs in conjunction with other risk factors such as high blood pressure, which increases the risk.
- Obesity
Excess weight makes the heart work harder and is a cause of high blood pressure, sleep apnea and diabetes. These all of which are risk factors for heart failure.
- Alcohol and smoking abuse
Both alcohol and smoking can harm the heart muscle, changing blood pressure and leading to heart rhythm disturbances.
6. Previous heart attack
Injury from one or other heart attacks can weaken the heart’s ability to function, leading to chronic heart failure.
7. Sleep Apnea
This condition leads to interrupted breathing at night, reducing oxygen levels and putting more strain on the heart.
8. Family genetics and history
Family members who have cardiomyopathy or other heart ailments can increase your risk. Genetic testing is recommended in certain cases.
Other known causes of heart failure
- Chronic kidney diseases: This leads to fluid buildup and increased pressure on the heart.
- Some medications: NSAIDs, Chemotherapy agents or diabetes medications can have a negative effect on heart health.
- Viral infections: Myocarditis, which is the inflammation of the heart muscle, can be caused by certain infections and may cause heart failure.
Expert tips for reducing the risk of heart failure
- Routine health screening- Check the blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels regularly -particularly if you have a family history of heart disease.
- Consume heart-friendly food- Have a diet rich in plenty if fruits, whole grains, lean meat, vegetables and minimal saturated fats, sugar and sodium.
- Keep active- Do a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise that will keep heart muscle strong and body weight in control.
- Stop smoking- Quit smoking severely reduces the risk of heart failure and enhances overall cardiovascular well-being.
- Limit alcohol consumption – Moderation is the best. Taking too much alcohol can stress heart muscles and increase blood pressure.
- Cope with stress- Chronic stress leads to high blood pressure and poor lifestyle habits. Learn to relax with activities such as yoga, meditation or controlled breathing exercises.
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