Condition Basics

What is heart failure?

Heart failure means that your heart muscle doesn't pump as much blood as your body needs. Failure doesn't mean that your heart has stopped. It means that your heart isn't pumping as well as it should.

Because your heart cannot pump well, your body tries to make up for it. To do this:

• Your body holds on to salt and water. This increases the amount of blood in your bloodstream.
• Your heart beats faster.
• Your heart might get bigger.

Your body has an amazing ability to make up for heart failure. It may do such a good job that you don't know you have a disease. But at some point, your heart and body will no longer be able to keep up. Then fluid starts to build up in your lungs and other parts of your body.

This fluid buildup is called congestion. It's why some doctors call the disease congestive heart failure.

What causes it?

Any problem that damages your heart or affects how well it works can lead to heart failure. This includes coronary artery disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, heart valve problems, and diabetes.

What are the symptoms?

Heart failure symptoms include feeling weak, lightheaded, and very tired. Fluid builds up in your lungs and other parts of your body. This causes you to be short of breath and have swelling in your body.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor may diagnose heart failure based on your symptoms and a physical exam. But you will need tests, such as an echocardiogram, to find the cause and type of heart failure so that you can get the right treatment.

How is heart failure treated?

Heart failure is treated with medicines, a heart-healthy lifestyle, and the steps you take to check your symptoms. Treatment may also include a heart device, such as a pacemaker. Treatment can slow the disease, help you feel better, and help keep you out of the hospital. Treatment may also help you live longer.