Heart Failure - Diagnosis & Treatment
Heart failure is a serious but manageable condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs. Contrary to its name, heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped working. Rather, it indicates that the heart is not working as efficiently as it should. At Apex Heart Hospital, we offer comprehensive care for heart failure, including early diagnosis, advanced treatment, and long-term management.
What is Heart Failure?
Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle becomes weak or stiff and cannot pump blood efficiently. It can affect one or both sides of the heart and may be chronic (long-term) or acute (sudden onset). Common causes include:
- Coronary artery disease (blockages in heart arteries)
- High blood pressure
- Previous heart attack
- Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle)
- Valve disorders
- Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
Common Symptoms of Heart Failure
Symptoms of heart failure can develop gradually or appear suddenly. They include:
- Shortness of breath, especially during exertion or while lying down
- Fatigue and weakness
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen (edema)
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink-tinged mucus
- Weight gain from fluid retention
- Difficulty concentrating or reduced alertness
- If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical evaluation.
How Heart Failure is Diagnosed
At Apex Heart Hospital, diagnosing heart failure involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Our cardiology team uses advanced tools to determine the type and severity of heart failure:
1. Blood Tests
Help detect markers such as BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide), which are elevated in heart failure.
2. ECG (Electrocardiogram)
Measures the heart’s electrical activity and detects arrhythmias or signs of previous heart attacks.
3. Echocardiogram
A key test that uses ultrasound to show the heart’s structure and function, including ejection fraction (EF), which measures how well the heart pumps.
4. Chest X-ray
Reveals the size of the heart and fluid buildup in the lungs.
5. Stress Tests and Angiography
Used to assess blood flow and identify blockages contributing to heart failure.
Treatment Options for Heart Failure
At Apex Heart Hospital, heart failure treatment is tailored to the type and stage of the condition. The goals are to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression.
1. Medications
Diuretics: Reduce fluid buildup
ACE inhibitors/ARBs: Relax blood vessels and reduce strain on the heart
Beta-blockers: Slow the heart rate and improve pumping efficiency
Aldosterone antagonists: Help control fluid levels and reduce mortality
SGLT2 inhibitors: Newer drugs effective in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
2. Lifestyle Changes
Low-sodium diet
Fluid restriction
Weight monitoring
Regular, moderate exercise
Avoiding alcohol and smoking
3. Advanced Therapies
Implantable devices like pacemakers and defibrillators (ICDs)
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for patients with electrical conduction issues
Surgical interventions including valve repair or coronary bypass, if needed
Comprehensive Heart Failure Care at Apex
- Our heart failure program includes patient education, cardiac rehabilitation, and ongoing monitoring. We work closely with patients and families to manage symptoms and prevent hospitalizations.
- With cutting-edge diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and a compassionate team, Apex Heart Hospital is a trusted destination for heart failure care in Thanjavur and the Delta region. Early diagnosis and proactive treatment can lead to better outcomes and a more active life — and we are here to help every step of the way.
