Congestive heart failure, also referred to as heart failure, is a medical condition where your heart is unable to supply sufficient blood for your body’s requirements. This could be due to inadequate blood filling or weak pumping of your heart. It is important to note that heart failure does not imply that your heart has ceased to function, but it is a serious condition that necessitates medical attention.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 6 million adults in the United States suffer from heart failure. Although children may also experience heart failure, this health concern primarily affects adults.

Heart failure can manifest suddenly (acute) or gradually over time as your heart becomes weaker (chronic). It can affect either or both sides of your heart, with left and right-sided heart failure having distinct underlying causes. In most cases, heart failure occurs as a result of an underlying medical condition that damages your heart. This can include coronary heart disease, heart inflammation, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, or an irregular heartbeat. While heart failure may not cause any symptoms at first, you may eventually experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and notice fluid accumulation in your lower body, abdomen, or neck.

Heart failure can lead to complications such as liver or kidney damage, pulmonary hypertension, irregular heartbeat, heart valve disease, or sudden cardiac arrest.

Your doctor will evaluate your medical and family history, perform a physical examination, and analyze imaging and blood test results to diagnose heart failure.

While there is no known cure for heart failure, lifestyle changes, medications, medical devices, and procedures can help manage the condition and improve your quality of life.