What is Congestive Heart Failure?


Congestive heart failure affects about 6.5 million Americans and there are approximately 670,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While it is the leading cause of hospitalization in people over the age of 65, the Medical News Today website reports on a 2016 study that estimates about half of the people who develop heart failure live more than 5 years after being diagnosed.  They explain there is no set reason why some people with CHF live longer than others as life expectancy varies greatly but “personal lifestyle choices may also play a factor, as well as whether a person has other medical problems.”

CHF is a disease that occurs when the heart muscle does not pump blood as well as it should and can be chronic or come on suddenly.  It affects people of any age but 80 percent of the cases occur in elderly people. Also, while the disease is not curable, early detection is important to extending life expectancy as well as quality of life. 

Common symptoms of CHF include fluid backing up in the lungs and resulting in shortness of breath during exercise or difficulty breathing at rest or when lying flat in bed.  A person can also have a hacking cough or wheezing.  As the disease causes less blood to be pumped to your kidneys, you may experience fluid and water retention with swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen as well as weight gain.  Other symptoms include dizziness and weakness, rapid or irregular heartbeats, nausea, and a lack of appetite.   

It you have any of these symptoms; you should see your healthcare provider as there are several treatments and lifestyle changes that can improve your condition.  It is advisable to limit sodium, keep track of your fluid intake, monitor your weight, and to take your medications. 

If you are looking for assisted living facilities in the Colorado Springs area, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows.  We are located on Centennial Street, just north of Garden of the Gods Road, and convenient to banks, hospitals, grocery stores and restaurants.

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows epitomizes the very best in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve as we create a true home for residents at the foot of the majestic Rockies.  We invite you to schedule a visit to discover why we are a step above ordinary assisted living facilities in Colorado Springs.

Sources: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321538.php
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373142

cdc.gov/heartdisease/heart_failure.htm

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