Diseases
congestive heart failure
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Heart failure — sometimes known as congestive heart failure — occurs when the heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should. When this happens, blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath.
Symptoms
- shortness of breath with activity or when lying down
- fatigue and weakness
- swelling in the legs, ankles and feet
- rapid or irregular heartbeat
- reduced ability to exercise
Causes
- coronary artery disease and heart attack
- high blood pressure.
- faulty heart valves.
Risk factors
- coronary artery disease.
- heart valve disease.
- high blood pressure.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- chest x-ray.
- electrocardiogram (ecg).
- echocardiogram.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is congestive heart failure?
Heart failure — sometimes known as congestive heart failure — occurs when the heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should. When this happens, blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath.
What are the symptoms of congestive heart failure?
shortness of breath with activity or when lying down, fatigue and weakness, swelling in the legs, ankles and feet, rapid or irregular heartbeat, reduced ability to exercise
What causes congestive heart failure?
coronary artery disease and heart attack; high blood pressure.; faulty heart valves.
Which medicines are used for congestive heart failure?
acetazolamide, amiloride, candesartan, captopril, carvedilol, cilazapril, enalapril, fosinopril, hydralazine, metoprolol, milrinone, spironolactone, trandolapril
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