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Heart Failure

A condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's metabolic needs. The heart muscle is weakened or has reduced contractile capacity. It may affect the left side of the heart, the right side, or both.

In left-sided heart failure, fluid accumulates in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and shortness of breath becomes prominent. In right-sided heart failure, fluid collects in the legs, the abdominal cavity, and the liver.

Heart failure is a chronic condition. Although a complete cure is generally not possible, treatment can control symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce hospital admissions.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath on exertion or when lying down (orthopnea)
Waking suddenly at night with severe shortness of breath
Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet (edema)
Chronic cough or wheezing (from fluid in the lungs)
Rapid weight gain (more than 1 kg per day)
Fatigue and weakness, limitations in daily activities
Loss of appetite and nausea

Risk Factors

Previous heart attack
Coronary artery disease and hypertension
Diabetes and obesity
Heart valve disorders
Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle)
Chronic alcohol use and certain chemotherapy drugs
Sleep apnea and chronic lung disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Seek emergency care for sudden severe shortness of breath
  • If you gain more than 2 kg within three days
  • If leg swelling is progressively worsening
  • If symptoms worsen despite taking your heart-failure medications
  • When fainting, altered consciousness, or palpitations occur

Treatment Methods

01
ACE inhibitors/ARBs and beta-blockers (cornerstone medical therapy)
02
Diuretics (to reduce fluid retention and swelling)
03
SGLT2 inhibitors (an important modern addition to heart-failure care)
04
Salt and fluid restriction, with regular weight monitoring
05
Cardiac rehabilitation and regular light exercise
06
In advanced cases: pacemaker (CRT), ICD, or heart transplantation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Kardiyoloji

Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

Kardiyoloji

Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

Kardiyoloji

Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

Kardiyoloji

Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Peripheral Artery Disease

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Peripheral artery disease can cause leg pain with walking (claudication) and, in advanced stages, tissue loss.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.