Does heart failure mean my
heart has stopped working?

Heart failure does not mean your heart stops working. It occurs when damage to the heart weakens its pumping power. Your heart must work harder to keep blood moving through your body.

Although it may sound scary, heart failure can be managed.

What causes heart failure?

In heart failure, the weakened heart cannot pump as strongly. There are many things that can damage your heart and lead to heart failure over time. They include:

• High blood pressure
• Heart attack
• Coronary artery disease
• Diabetes
• Injury to the heart or a birth defect
• Severe lung disease

What does heart failure feel like?

Patients with heart failure may experience some of these symptoms but not necessarily all of them.

• Shortness of breath
• Faster heartbeat
• Feeling extra tired
• Swollen ankles, legs, or belly
• Weight gain (from fluid)
• Frequent cough
• Trouble sleeping because of shortness of breath

Taking care of heart failure every day

Today, there is no cure for certain types of heart failure. But these steps can help you lead a longer life with fewer health problems.

   Take your medicines as directed by your doctor.

   Keep your weight in a healthy range.

   Eat foods that are low in salt and low in fat.

   If you smoke, quit.

   Get regular, moderate exercise if your doctor approves.

 

 

Other Tools

• My Medicine Schedule