The symptoms of congestive heart failure vary from person to person, depending on the stage they’re in. The underlying causes also affect how heart failure progresses and may include other medical conditions and lifestyle factors. No cure is available, though treatments are available to slow the progression.
Cardiac care and rehabilitation is often recommended to slow down the progression. The personalized treatment slows an individual’s symptoms to increase their lifespan and maintain their independence. It also teaches individuals to monitor their condition and alter lifestyle choices to improve their quality of life.
Let’s look at the factors affecting the progression of heart failure.
Underlying Causes of Congestive Heart Failure Progression
Several underlying causes raise the risk of congestive heart failure. Many of these include medical conditions, some of which may be genetic, while others occur due to lifestyle or environmental factors.
Some conditions contributing to this condition include:
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Myocarditis
- Cardiomyopathy
- Other heart issues.
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes Arrhythmia
- Kidney disease may also cause heart failure in some individuals.
Other issues leading to heart failure include severe infections, allergic reactions, blood clots in the lungs, or viruses. Even the use of some medications affects the heart’s functions, including those used for cancer treatment.
Unhealthy lifestyle factors
Another major problem is an unhealthy lifestyle, and it is no surprise that making poor lifestyle choices will increase the risk of congestive heart failure.
A sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet weaken the heart. These will also lead to obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other problems affecting the heart.
Altering these lifestyle choices reduces the risk of heart failure and slows the progression in those already diagnosed with the condition.
How can cardiac rehab help?
Treating the underlying cause is essential for reducing the symptoms and progression of congestive heart failure. It’s also vital to treat any heart issues straight away without any delays.
The best method is cardiac rehabilitation, which is customizable for a person’s unique needs.
Cardiac care includes exercises and monitoring the condition to manage symptoms and identify new ones as they occur. A trained therapist educates patients on diet, nutrition, exercise, and essential lifestyle changes.
Self-care techniques and medication management are also vital aspects of treatment. Following the therapist’s advice improves quality of life and reduces the condition’s progression.
Congestive heart failure stages
As a long-term condition, heart failure worsens over time, with 4 stages of progression. These develop at varying rates, depending on the risk factors, medical history, and lifestyle of everyone.
- Stage A – Those in this stage are at high risk for developing heart failure but haven’t received a diagnosis. The risks are due to family history or medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension. Some medications also damage the heart, raising the chances of heart failure.
- Stage B – In this stage, individuals are still pre-heart failure, though their heart isn’t functioning properly. There could also be structural issues putting the heart at risk.
- Stage C – During this stage, individuals have received a congestive heart failure diagnosis. They have likely noticed symptoms, including shortness of breath, heart palpitations, fatigue, or chest pain.
- Stage D – As the final stage, the symptoms are advanced, and treatment is no longer effective.
And finally, smoking cigarettes or excessive alcohol consumption also weaken the heart and contributes to cardiac issues.
Resources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142
This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.
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