Congestive Heart Failure

Introduction:

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the rest of the body. Heart failure is often a long-term condition, but it can sometimes develop suddenly. Heart failure often occurs over a long term from chronic conditions such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, hypertension, infection, diabetes, smoking, and many others. As the heart’s pumping becomes less efficient, blood may back up in other areas of the body. Fluid may build up in the lungs, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and the arms and legs resulting in congestive heart failure (CHF). Diagnosis of CHF is usually established by findings on a physical exam and an echocardiogram.