Heart failure often develops because the heart is damaged or weakened or the main pumping chambers (the ventricles) have become too stiff and cannot fill properly between beats, for instance, in the case of elevated blood pressure levels. Heart failure can involve single or both ventricles. Generally, heart failure begins with the left ventricle (the main pumping chamber).

Early detection of heart failure depends on effective lifestyle changes, the right pharmacological interventions and early testing. Heart failure is a complex disease. It is challenging to detect it during routine care as it is both clinically silent and diverse in causes and symptoms.

Some tests include:

• Blood tests, where levels of cholesterol, lipoprotein, C-reactive protein, natriuretic peptides and Troponin T are checked.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart
• Echocardiogram, an ultrasound scan where sound waves are used to examine the heart
• Breathing tests that check if a lung problem contributes to breathlessness
• Chest X-ray that checks the presence of fluid in the lungs (a sign of heart failure)

There are several tests such as blood tests, chest X-rays and breathing tests to check for heart failure. One of the tests is the electrocardiogram (ECG), which records the electrical activity of the heart. Another is the echocardiogram, an ultrasound scan, where sound waves are used to examine the heart.

Some blood tests doctors use to diagnose and manage heart disease include:

• Cholesterol test or lipid profile: A high level of LDL cholesterol can indicate a higher risk of heart disease.
• High-sensitivity C-reactive protein: Higher levels are associated with a higher risk of heart attack
• Lipoprotein (a): High levels may indicate an increased risk of heart disease
• Natriuretic peptides: High levels could suggest a heart problem
• Troponin T: Increased levels have been linked with a higher risk of heart disease

The clinical gold standard for diagnosis of heart failure is an elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure at rest (this indicates left ventricular failure) or an invasive hemodynamic exercise test in those with symptoms of heart failure.

First-line drug therapy for all patients with heart failure usually involves an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and a beta-blocker as these have been shown to decrease morbidity. These medications help decrease the strain on the heart and improve blood flow.

Here are some ways to prevent heart failure:

• Good nutrition: limit saturated fats, trans fats, extra sugar and salt in the diet
• Control blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Exercise
• Limit alcohol intake
• Avoid smoking
• Manage stress

In most cases, surgery cannot “fix” heart failure. However, interventions like coronary artery bypass graft, valve replacement surgery and heart transplantation may help improve the condition in some people. Medication is the main treatment for heart failure.

People over 65 years old have a higher risk of heart failure because aging tends to weaken and stiffen the heart. Though more common in older people, heart failure can occur at any age.

There are four stages of heart failure:
Stage A: Pre-heart failure: high risk of developing heart failure because of a family history of heart failure, hypertension, diabetes, etc. Stage B: Also called pre-heart failure: no symptoms of heart failure but diagnosed with systolic left ventricular dysfunction Stage C: Stage when heart failure is diagnosed. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, and weak legs. Stage D: Final stage of heart failure, one may need advanced treatment options such as a heart transplant.

The Yashoda Group of Hospitals has, over the past three decades, evolved as a center of excellence in medicine. If you would like to get a free second opinion, our team of physicians and specialists are here to help. Contact us today or book an appointment.