Chronic heart failure is a gradual invasive condition that causes the heart muscles not able to pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs. This results in a buildup of fluid in the body that leads to the development of various complications in various organs of the body.
Coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart valve problems, cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart defects damage the heart muscles and lead to the development of congestive heart failure (CHF). Other risk factors, including obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use, can also cause CHF.
Symptoms:
- Persistent coughing with wheezing.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Decreased Physical movements.
- Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention.
- Loss of appetite.
- Difficulties in sleeping.
- Confused or impaired thinking.
- Frequent urination, especially at night.
Complications of heart failure:
Heart failure can lead to various complications, which can be serious and even life-threatening if not properly managed. They mainly develop due to the heart's inability to pump blood effectively, leading to a decreased oxygen supply to tissues and organs.
Fluid buildup (Edema): Heart failure often leads to fluid retention, which further causes swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen (edema). This can cause discomfort, difficulty breathing, and decreased mobility.
Kidney damage (Renal insufficiency): Reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to heart failure can impair their function, leading to fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
Arrhythmias: The electrical system of the heart is responsible for producing the action potential, and the conduction system may be affected due to heart failure. These abnormalities can cause palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or even sudden cardiac arrest in severe cases.
Pulmonary edema: Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) can occur rapidly and lead to severe shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and a feeling of suffocation. Pulmonary edema requires immediate medical attention as it can be life-threatening.
Cardiogenic shock: the ability of the heart to pump the blood effectively will degrade rapidly. This can result in cardiogenic shock, a medical emergency characterized by low blood pressure, confusion, cold extremities, and organ failure.
Edema treatment caused by congestive heart failure
Diuretics (Water Pills): Diuretics are medications that help the body eliminate excess fluid through increased urine output. Certain drugs like Dytor 20mg tablets that contain torasemide belong to the class of loop diuretics. It works by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes from the kidneys, which helps to reduce excess fluid buildup in the body.
Sodium Restriction: Limiting sodium intake is crucial in managing fluid retention. Excess sodium can worsen edema and increase blood pressure, placing more strain on the heart. Patients are typically advised to consume a low-sodium diet, which involves avoiding processed foods, canned soups, and salty snacks and adding minimal salt to meals.
Fluid Restriction: In severe cases, fluid intake may need to be restricted to prevent further fluid buildup. This restriction is typically guided by a healthcare professional based on the individual's condition and fluid balance needs. Fluid restriction of about 1.5-2 liters of water per day may be implemented in patients.
Medications to Improve Heart Function: Pharmacotherapy management using drugs like ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, and cardiac glycosides may help minimize the symptoms and reduce the burden on heart muscles.
Compression Stockings: Compression stockings can reduce swelling in the legs by improving blood circulation and preventing fluid buildup. These stockings apply pressure to the legs, promoting the movement of fluid back toward the heart.
Elevation of Legs: Elevating the legs above heart level when lying down can help reduce swelling that allows fluid to drain away from the affected areas.
Conclusion:
The development of edema during a heart failure can lead to a variety of complications. Still, it can be effectively managed by employing various classes of medicines, medical procedures, and lifestyle and dietary changes as recommended by a healthcare professional.
