Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot meet the body's demands, specifically failing to pump blood effectively. This condition results in insufficient blood supply to organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys. It can involve the failure of the right, left, or both ventricles, with symptoms varying depending on the affected side. Common signs include shortness of breath (cardiac asthma), blood pooling in the body's general or portal circulation, swelling (edema), a bluish or dusky skin tone, and heart enlargement.Several factors can lead to heart failure, such as: (1) coronary artery disease, resulting in heart attacks and muscle weakness; (2) primary heart muscle weakness from viral infections or toxins, like prolonged alcohol use; (3) heart valve disease, which weakens the heart muscle due to blood leakage or stiffness from a blocked valve; and (4) conditions like high blood pressure. Less common causes include hyperthyroidism, vitamin deficiencies, and excessive stimulant use.The goal of treatment is to enhance the heart's pumping ability. General treatments include reducing salt intake, using diuretics to eliminate excess fluid, administering digoxin to strengthen the heart, and other medications. Spironolactone has proven particularly effective in treating congestive heart failure, complementing the effects of another common drug class used for this condition. Additionally, a pacemaker-like device is available to treat heart failure by delivering synchronized electrical stimulation to three heart chambers, improving blood circulation throughout the body.
