In recognition of Heart Month, heart experts at Medical City Lewisville are spreading awareness about congestive heart failure (CHF). CHF is a type of heart disease where the heart works less efficiently and cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s demands. According to the American Heart Association heart failure affects over 6 million Americans.
This disease has many causes, some are preventable including drinking excessive alcohol, uncontrolled blood pressure and consuming excess salt. Awareness is an important tool to help prevent CHF.
“Prevention of congestive heart failure starts with self-education regarding diet and risk factors that are specific to oneself,” says Siva Sontineni, MD, a cardiologist on staff at Medical City Lewisville. “People should limit consumption of alcohol, eat a heart-healthy diet and control additional risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.”
Symptoms of CHF include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue and weakness
- Reduced ability to exercise
- Swelling of the legs, ankles and feet
- Persistent cough or wheezing
Anyone that experiences CHF symptoms should contact their physician immediately.
“Treatment for congestive heart failure includes evaluation with a cardiologist for ongoing follow-up care to incorporate the latest medical therapy along with adopting a heart-healthy diet as advised by your cardiologist,” says Moiz Shafiq, MD, medical director of cardiology at Medical City Lewisville. “Ignoring symptoms could lead to serious progression of the disease that may impact the capacity to be active in daily life or even lead to stroke or sudden cardiac death."
Medical City Lewisville offers comprehensive cardiac care. The full-service program provides emergency and scheduled heart procedures, including the latest techniques for heart surgery and cardiac imaging.