Heart health awareness is growing, with many people familiar with conditions like heart attacks. However, there is often less understanding around heart failure—a chronic condition where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently. Dr. Priya Palimkar, an interventional cardiologist from Sahyadri Hospital, Pune, provides essential insights into heart failure, its symptoms, and the importance of timely diagnosis.
What Is Heart Failure?
Heart failure occurs when the heart, which acts as a pump, becomes too weak to pump blood as effectively as needed. This reduced pumping capacity impacts blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body’s organs, leading to a variety of symptoms. Although it’s a serious condition, heart failure doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working; rather, it means the heart needs support to function effectively.
Common Symptoms Of Heart Failure
Before cancer develops, there are often early signs or lesions that indicate the possibility of future cancerous growth. One of the most common pre-cancerous lesions is Leukoplakia, which appears as white patches inside the mouth.
While some people might witness a reduction in Leukoplakia with specific vitamin treatments and following medical advice, for others, it remains unchanged.
It’s crucial to understand that there’s a 5-10% chance of developing cancer from Leukoplakia.
Another alarming condition is Submucous Fibrosis. In this state, the jaw doesn’t open fully, allowing only two or three fingers to fit inside the mouth.
The patient might experience difficulty in speaking, and the inner mouth appears tightened. This condition is a significant precancerous lesion with a high likelihood of progressing to cancer.
When To Consult A Doctor
If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. Dr. Palimkar advises visiting a doctor promptly for evaluation and testing if symptoms persist or worsen. Tests may include an echocardiogram, blood tests, and other assessments to determine the heart’s condition.
What Causes Heart Failure?
Heart failure can stem from a variety of causes, including:
- Coronary Artery Disease: Blocked arteries reduce blood flow to the heart muscle, which can weaken its ability to pump.
- High Blood Pressure: Over time, untreated high blood pressure strains the heart, potentially leading to heart failure.
- Diabetes and Lifestyle Factors: Conditions like diabetes and lifestyle factors, such as smoking or a high-sodium diet, can contribute to heart damage.
Heart Attacks and Heart Valve Issues: Prior heart attacks or valve conditions can compromise heart function, leading to heart failure.
Managing Heart Failure
While heart failure is a chronic condition, it is often manageable. Treatment can involve lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes medical procedures. Common lifestyle adjustments include reducing salt intake, eating a balanced diet, quitting smoking, and following a doctor-approved exercise routine. Medications such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics can also help the heart function better and reduce symptoms.
Final Thoughts: Early Diagnosis Is Key
As Dr. Priya Palimkar emphasises, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing heart failure effectively. With appropriate medical support, many people with heart failure can live fulfilling lives. If you experience symptoms or have a family history of heart issues, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Recognizing symptoms and taking action promptly can significantly improve your quality of life and heart health.
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