What is Heart Failure? (Introduction)

Heart failure means the heart does not pump blood as well as the body needs. It does not mean the heart has stopped. The name is alarming, but with proper treatment many people live for years with a good quality of life.

What happens

The heart may be too weak to squeeze properly (reduced ejection fraction) or too stiff to fill properly (preserved ejection fraction). Either way, the body gets less blood than it needs, and fluid backs up in the lungs, legs and abdomen.

Common signs

• Breathlessness, first on effort and later at rest or when lying flat
• Swelling of the feet, ankles and belly
• Rapid weight gain from fluid
• Fatigue and weakness
• Night-time cough

Who is affected

It is more common with age, but can affect younger people. It is often the result of long-standing high blood pressure, a past heart attack, diabetes, valve disease or a weak heart muscle (cardiomyopathy).

It can be chronic or sudden

Heart failure usually develops slowly. It can also worsen suddenly, which is called acute decompensation, and needs urgent care.

Emergency signs

Call 112 or 102 for severe breathlessness at rest, pink or frothy sputum, chest pain, fainting or a very fast heartbeat.

The Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes related conditions under hridroga. This is an interpretive framework, not a replacement for cardiology care.

Key point

Heart failure is a long-term condition that is managed, not ignored. Early treatment improves symptoms and survival.

Before your appointment

Bring your list of medicines and supplements, recent test reports such as echocardiogram, ECG and kidney tests, and your daily weight and blood pressure log. Note any breathlessness, swelling, night-time symptoms or reduced activity, and how much salt and fluid you take. Ask about warning signs and when to call 112 or 102.