Medically Reviewed by Alan M. Blaker, MD

As part of an annual survey by the American Heart Association, people were asked if they knew what is Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) was.

Nearly 60% of those surveyed mistakenly thought it was when your heart suddenly stopped beating.

Incorrect. That’s a heart attack.

“Even though 1 in 5 Americans will develop congestive heart failure during their life, it is still very misunderstood,” says McLeod Cardiologist Alan Blaker, MD. “Heart attacks are sudden, painful and can be fatal. Atrial fibrillation causes the heart flutter, something you can feel. But CHF can build slowly and be mistaken for nothing more than the signs of aging.”

CHF is caused when the heart muscle can’t pump vigorously enough to move the blood through the body or becomes too stiff with the same result. It can be triggered by a heart attack, chronic high blood pressure or some other problem that damages the heart muscle.

Nearly half those surveyed said that CHF was a “silent killer” with no symptoms. Not so.

To help you spot potential CHF in yourself and others, here are symptoms to look for:

• Tiredness, confusion or fatigue, because the body and brain aren’t receiving enough fresh oxygenated blood.
• Dramatic short-term weight gain, such as 3 or more pounds in a day, due to retention of fluids.
• Fluids can collect in the ankles and feet, causing swelling.
• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing, because fluid is not being removed from the lungs and is reducing space for oxygen.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Much of the work in controlling Congestive Heart Failure is your responsibility. It’s up to you to closely follow your physician’s advice for:

• Taking prescribed medications. Often, several medications are required to treat different symptoms.
• Monitoring your weight, symptoms and water retention. Alert your physician to any dramatic changes.
• Starting an exercise program and stop smoking.
• Eating a healthy diet.

ACTION YOU CAN TAKE

If you or someone in your family has more than one of these symptoms, it’s time to see a cardiologist.

Although there is no cure for Congestive Heart Failure, the sooner it’s spotted and treatment begins, the better the chances for an improved quality of life and longer life, as well.

You may also find this article helpful:

Congestive Heart Failure. What is it? What can we do?

Find a cardiologist near you.

Sources include: McLeod Health, American Heart Association, Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada, Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality