Heart failure is a condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood throughout the body. In most cases, heart failure develops over time as the result of other health conditions like high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, and diabetes. Left untreated, heart failure can worsen and eventually lead to death. That’s why it’s so important to get a second opinion.
A Healthy Heart
A healthy heart is defined by how well it can pump blood throughout the body. The left ventricle is the chamber of the heart that pumps oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the rest of the body. When this chamber isn’t able to pump effectively, it’s called left ventricular dysfunction or heart failure.
How Heart Failure Can Develop and the Main Causes
Heart failure can develop slowly over time as the result of other health conditions. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is one of the most common causes of heart failure. Hypertension puts extra strain on the heart and can damage the arteries, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.
Coronary artery disease is another common cause of heart failure. This condition occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, which can prevent the heart from getting enough oxygen-rich blood. Diabetes is also a risk factor for heart failure because it can damage the heart and blood vessels.
What is Heart Failure and What Happens When You Experience It?
Heart failure doesn’t mean that your heart has stopped working. It means that the heart isn’t pumping blood as well as it should. This can cause a number of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and feet. Heart failure can also lead to an irregular heartbeat, known as arrhythmia.
Can a Heart Go Back to Normal After Heart Failure?
The answer to this question is complicated. In some cases, heart failure can be reversed with lifestyle changes and medication. However, in other cases, the damage to the heart is irreversible. If you’re considering treatment for heart failure, it’s important to get a second opinion.
Get an Online Second Opinion from PRIMO Health Partners
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with heart failure, it’s important to get a second opinion. An online second opinion from a board-certified cardiologist can give you peace of mind and help you make the best decisions about your treatment.
Contact PRIMO Health Partners to get your second opinion.
