Recognize the early symptoms of heart failure (illustration).
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA—Disease heart is one of the most dangerous health problems in the world. Of the various types of heart disease, heart failure is a disease that needs to be treated specifically and seriously.
This condition can be caused by various factors, such as an unhealthy lifestyle, the presence of various other comorbidities, or genetic or hereditary factors. Symptoms of heart failure can range from stable to severe, and has the potential to significantly impact a person’s quality of life and end in death.
Cardiologist and Blood Vessel Specialist, Heart Failure Subspecialty at Siloam Kebon Jeruk Hospital, Dr. Leonardo Pasifik Suciadi, SpJP, FIHA, FESC, explained that heart failure is a very serious condition and has the potential to be life threatening. This condition is characterized by the inability of the heart to pump blood effectively throughout the body resulting in failure in the supply of blood, nutrients and oxygen to various organs of the body.
“This condition can be related to abnormalities in the heart muscle, either in the form of weakened or stiff muscles, or overloading the heart,” he said in a press release, Thursday (22/6/2023).
Cause of heart failure conditions can come from various kinds of heart disease. Coronary heart disease and uncontrolled high blood pressure are the most common causes.
Apart from that, according to Dr. Easter, various other causes include valvular heart disease, uncorrected congenital heart defects, specific heart muscle disorders (cardiomyopathy), metabolic diseases (diabetes, thyroid hormone disorders, obesity, anemia), genetic disorders, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, alcoholism, infection or inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), toxic effects of drugs (most often after cancer chemotherapy or radiotherapy), and heart muscle disorders related to pregnancy.
Why is it important to recognize and seek medical attention for the early symptoms of heart failure
Recognizing the Early Symptoms of Heart Failure
Heart disease is a serious and potentially life-threatening health problem. Among the various types of heart disease, heart failure requires specific and serious treatment.
Heart failure can be caused by various factors, including an unhealthy lifestyle, the presence of other comorbidities, and genetic or hereditary factors. The symptoms of heart failure can range from mild to severe and have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life, and in some cases, can even lead to death.
Dr. Leonardo Pasifik Suciadi, a cardiologist and blood vessel specialist specializing in heart failure at Siloam Kebon Jeruk Hospital, explains that heart failure is a critical condition that can be life-threatening. It occurs when the heart is unable to effectively pump blood throughout the body, resulting in a failure to supply blood, nutrients, and oxygen to various organs.
“This condition can be related to abnormalities in the heart muscle, such as weakened or stiff muscles, or an overburdened heart,” he said.
The most common causes of heart failure are coronary heart disease and uncontrolled high blood pressure. However, there are also other factors that can contribute to the development of heart failure. These include valvular heart disease, uncorrected congenital heart defects, specific heart muscle disorders (cardiomyopathy), metabolic diseases (such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity, and anemia), genetic disorders, chronic kidney disease, chronic lung disease, alcoholism, infection or inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), toxic effects of drugs (often seen after cancer chemotherapy or radiotherapy), and heart muscle disorders related to pregnancy.
It is important to recognize the early symptoms of heart failure in order to seek prompt medical attention. Some common signs include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling in the legs or ankles, rapid or irregular heartbeat, persistent coughing or wheezing, and sudden weight gain. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
Early detection and intervention can significantly improve the outcome for individuals with heart failure. If you suspect you may be experiencing symptoms of heart failure, do not delay seeking medical help. Remember, early recognition and appropriate treatment are key to managing this serious condition and improving your overall health and well-being.
