Congestive heart failure (CHF), also called heart failure, is a chronic condition in which the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. This inefficiency can weaken the heart muscle over time. While CHF is often linked to other conditions such as cardiomyopathy, the two are not the same. Cardiomyopathy refers specifically to diseases of the heart muscle that may lead to CHF. With proper treatment and management, many CHF symptoms can be controlled successfully.
Heart failure can occur differently depending on which side of the heart is affected. Common types include:
Heart failure is often associated with other heart conditions, such as heart valve problems or irregular heartbeats. Symptoms of heart failure may include:
Stage 1: No noticeable symptoms
Stage 2: Normal physical activity may cause shortness of breath or heart palpitations
Stage 3: Mild physical activity leads to noticeable symptoms
Stage 4: Symptoms occur even at rest or with minimal activity
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you have a known heart condition, consult a doctor promptly. At Banner Health, our specialists can help identify the cause of your symptoms and provide tailored treatment options.
CHF is often triggered by other medical conditions that weaken or damage the heart muscle over time. Common causes include:
Coronary artery disease is a condition where plaque builds up inside the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. This buildup can lead to heart attacks or heart failure.
Doctors use several tests to diagnose CHF and assess the health of your heart. These may include:
Learn more about the congestive heart failure diagnostic testing options offered by Banner Heath.
Our heart specialists treat heart failure with medication, such as beta-blockers or nitrates, or with a variety of medical and surgical procedures. We’ll also work with you to adopt lifestyle changes and develop a congestive heart failure action plan so you can better manage your condition and improve your heart health. While congestive heart failure is not curable, early detection and treatment can improve a patient’s life expectancy.
Medical procedures to help your heart stay strong longer, include:
Your doctor may choose one or a combination of treatments to get the best results tailored to your needs. At Banner Health, you have a wide range of treatments available and, with our focus on research, some of the most advanced options for your care.
If a heart transplant is not an option or you are awaiting a heart transplant, advanced therapies such as LVAD or TAH may be alternatives.
Both devices are powered by external controllers and can serve as either bridge-to-transplant or long-term solutions.
The LVAD works by helping your heart pump and circulate blood mechanically. This takes the pressure off your heart, so you feel less tired, have fewer symptoms and breathe easier. We implant the LVAD into your heart and activate it by an attached controller that stays outside of your body.
Like a LVAD, a TAH is also controlled by a power source outside your body. It replaces the heart’s ventricles and pumps blood to and from the heart.
Your doctor will determine whether or not an LVAD or TAH is an appropriate treatment option for you based on your specific health needs and conditions.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is the best way to prevent heart failure. If you do experience heart failure, you can also prevent further weakness by taking these steps:
At Banner Health, we support your heart health through cardiac rehabilitation, heart-healthy classes and support groups. Talk to your doctor to access the resources you need.
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