--- title: "Heart Failure: Symptoms & Treatment | infoMD" description: "Heart Failure causes swelling in legs and ankles. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and how to manage heart failure with guidance from medical" lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "MedicalCondition", "name": "Heart Failure", "alternateName": [ "Congestive Heart Failure", "CHF" ], "description": "Heart failure is a progressive condition in which the heart muscle becomes too weak or stiff to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid to back up in the lungs, abdomen, and extremities. It does not mean the heart has stopped but rather that it cannot meet the body's needs.", "associatedAnatomy": { "@type": "AnatomicalSystem", "name": "Cardiovascular" }, "signOrSymptom": [ { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Swelling in legs and ankles" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Persistent cough or wheezing" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Fatigue and weakness" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Rapid or irregular heartbeat" }, { "@type": "MedicalSignOrSymptom", "name": "Shortness of breath" } ], "possibleTreatment": [ { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Limit sodium intake to 1,500-2,000 mg per day to reduce fluid retention" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Monitor daily weight and report sudden gains to your doctor" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Restrict fluid intake as recommended (typically 6-8 cups per day in advanced cases)" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Engage in regular, gentle exercise as approved by your doctor (cardiac rehab is ideal)" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Quit smoking and limit alcohol" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Get adequate sleep and treat sleep apnea if present" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "ACE inhibitors or ARBs - reduce strain on the heart and improve survival" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Beta-blockers (carvedilol, metoprolol) - slow heart rate and improve function over time" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Diuretics (furosemide) - remove excess fluid and relieve swelling" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Aldosterone antagonists (spironolactone) - reduce fluid retention and improve outcomes" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin) - newer drugs shown to reduce hospitalization" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto) - combination drug that reduces strain and improves survival" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) - prevents sudden cardiac death" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) - pacemaker-like device improves heart coordination" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) - mechanical pump for advanced heart failure" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Heart transplant - for end-stage heart failure when other treatments are no longer effective" }, { "@type": "MedicalTherapy", "name": "Valve repair or replacement surgery" } ], "riskFactor": [ { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Coronary artery disease or previous heart attack" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "High blood pressure" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Diabetes, especially type 2" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Obesity" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Age over 65" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Sleep apnea" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Excessive alcohol consumption" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Smoking" }, { "@type": "MedicalRiskFactor", "name": "Family history of heart failure" } ], "typicalTest": "Physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies" }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is heart failure the same as a heart attack?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is suddenly blocked, damaging the heart muscle. Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart gradually loses its ability to pump effectively. However, a heart attack can cause enough damage to the heart muscle to lead to heart failure." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long can you live with heart failure?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Life expectancy with heart failure varies greatly depending on the type, severity, and how well it responds to treatment. Many people live 5, 10, or even 20+ years after diagnosis with proper medical care and lifestyle management. Advances in medications and devices continue to improve survival rates." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can heart failure be reversed?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "In some cases, yes. If heart failure is caused by a treatable condition - like a thyroid disorder, valve problem, or alcohol use - addressing the underlying cause can significantly improve or even normalize heart function. For most patients, however, the goal is to manage symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is ejection fraction?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Ejection fraction (EF) is a measurement of how much blood the left ventricle pumps out with each beat, expressed as a percentage. A normal EF is 55-70%. An EF of 40% or below indicates the heart isn't pumping well (heart failure with reduced ejection fraction). Some people have heart failure with a normal EF - their heart pumps adequately but doesn't fill properly." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can you exercise with heart failure?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, and exercise is actually recommended for most people with stable heart failure. Regular, moderate physical activity - such as walking, cycling, or water aerobics - strengthens the heart and improves endurance, mood, and quality of life. Always start slowly and follow your doctor's recommendations or join a cardiac rehabilitation program." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://infomd.com" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Conditions", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Cardiovascular", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions/body-system/cardiovascular" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "Heart Failure", "item": "https://infomd.com/conditions/heart-failure" } ] } ] --- [Skip to main content](#main-content) [![infoMD](/assets/infomd-logo-CtvTblFD.png)](/) [Home](/) [Conditions](/conditions) [Glossary](/glossary)[Shop](/shop) 1. [Home](/) 2. [Conditions](/conditions) 3. [Cardiovascular](/conditions/body-system/cardiovascular) 4. Heart Failure Cardiovascular [Heart Health](/topics/heart-health) # Heart Failure Also known as: Congestive Heart Failure, CHF infoMD Editorial Team February 12, 2025 8 min read Share: [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfomd.com%2Fconditions%2Fheart-failure)[](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfomd.com%2Fconditions%2Fheart-failure&text=Heart%20Failure) ### Quick Facts Type Chronic Affects Adults over 65, those with prior heart attacks, high blood pressure, or diabetes Prevalence Approximately 6.2 million American adults live with heart failure Treatable Manageable with medications, devices, and in severe cases, heart transplant See a Specialist Cardiologist or Heart Failure Specialist ICD-10 Code I50 ## Overview Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition in which the heart muscle is unable to pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body's needs. Despite its name, heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped working - rather, it means the heart is weaker than normal and struggles to keep up with the demands of the body. Blood may back up in the lungs or other tissues, causing the hallmark symptoms of shortness of breath and fluid retention. Heart failure can affect the left side, the right side, or both sides of the heart. Left-sided heart failure - the most common type - causes fluid to build up in the lungs. Right-sided heart failure leads to fluid accumulation in the legs, ankles, and abdomen. Heart failure is classified by ejection fraction: HFrEF (reduced ejection fraction, where the heart doesn't contract well) and HFpEF (preserved ejection fraction, where the heart doesn't relax and fill properly). Approximately 6.2 million adults in the United States live with heart failure, and about 960,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. While heart failure is a serious condition, advances in medication, devices, and lifestyle management have significantly improved outcomes. Many people with heart failure live active, meaningful lives for years after diagnosis. ## Symptoms Recognizing the symptoms of heart failure early can lead to faster diagnosis and better outcomes. ### Early Symptoms - Shortness of breath during physical activity - Fatigue and weakness with routine tasks - Mild swelling in the ankles or feet by the end of the day - Need to use extra pillows to sleep comfortably ### Advanced Symptoms - Shortness of breath even at rest or while lying flat - Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink-tinged mucus - Significant swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen - Rapid or irregular heartbeat - Sudden weight gain from fluid retention (2-3 pounds in a day) - Difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness - Reduced appetite and nausea ### Emergency Warning Signs - Sudden, severe shortness of breath with frothy or pink mucus - Chest pain that may indicate a heart attack - Fainting or severe lightheadedness - Rapid heart rate with extreme shortness of breath - Bluish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis) When to See a Doctor Contact your doctor if you notice increased shortness of breath, new or worsening swelling, sudden weight gain (more than 2-3 pounds in a day), or a persistent cough. Seek emergency care if you experience sudden severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, or bluish skin color. ## Causes & Risk Factors ### Common Causes - Coronary artery disease - the most common cause, reduces blood flow to the heart muscle - Prior heart attack that damaged heart tissue - Chronic high blood pressure forcing the heart to work harder - Damaged or diseased heart valves - Cardiomyopathy - disease of the heart muscle from infections, alcohol abuse, or genetics - Congenital heart defects - Heart arrhythmias, especially long-standing atrial fibrillation ### Risk Factors - Coronary artery disease or previous heart attack - High blood pressure - Diabetes, especially type 2 - Obesity - Age over 65 - Atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias - Sleep apnea - Excessive alcohol consumption - Smoking - Family history of heart failure ## How It's Diagnosed Diagnosing heart failure involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. During the physical exam, your doctor will listen to your heart and lungs (checking for fluid sounds), examine your legs and abdomen for swelling, and check your neck veins for distension. Blood tests, particularly for a protein called B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP or NT-proBNP), can help confirm heart failure - elevated levels indicate the heart is under stress. The most important imaging test is an echocardiogram, which uses ultrasound to show how well your heart is pumping and whether there are structural problems with the valves or chambers. Your doctor may also order a chest X-ray (to check for lung congestion and heart enlargement), an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress tests, cardiac MRI, or cardiac catheterization. Together, these tests help determine the type and severity of heart failure and guide treatment decisions. ## Treatment Options ### Lifestyle Changes - Limit sodium intake to 1,500-2,000 mg per day to reduce fluid retention - Monitor daily weight and report sudden gains to your doctor - Restrict fluid intake as recommended (typically 6-8 cups per day in advanced cases) - Engage in regular, gentle exercise as approved by your doctor (cardiac rehab is ideal) - Quit smoking and limit alcohol - Get adequate sleep and treat sleep apnea if present ### Medications - ACE inhibitors or ARBs - reduce strain on the heart and improve survival - Beta-blockers (carvedilol, metoprolol) - slow heart rate and improve function over time - Diuretics (furosemide) - remove excess fluid and relieve swelling - Aldosterone antagonists (spironolactone) - reduce fluid retention and improve outcomes - SGLT2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin) - newer drugs shown to reduce hospitalization - Sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto) - combination drug that reduces strain and improves survival ### Medical Procedures - Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) - prevents sudden cardiac death - Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) - pacemaker-like device improves heart coordination - Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) - mechanical pump for advanced heart failure - Heart transplant - for end-stage heart failure when other treatments are no longer effective - Valve repair or replacement surgery ### Complementary Approaches - Coenzyme Q10 supplementation (some evidence of modest benefit) - Hawthorn extract (limited evidence, consult your doctor before using) - Mindfulness-based stress reduction programs ## Living With Heart Failure Living with heart failure requires daily self-management and close communication with your healthcare team. Weighing yourself every morning and recording the result helps catch fluid buildup before it becomes a problem - a gain of 2-3 pounds in a day or 5 pounds in a week is a signal to call your doctor. Managing your sodium intake is one of the most effective things you can do; learning to read food labels and cooking at home makes this much easier. Many people with heart failure find that a structured cardiac rehabilitation program provides the guidance, exercise support, and education they need to feel confident managing their condition. Fatigue is one of the most challenging symptoms, but staying as active as possible within your limits actually improves energy levels over time. Emotional support matters too - anxiety and depression are common in heart failure, and talking to a counselor or joining a support group can make a real difference in your quality of life. ## Potential Complications - Kidney damage or failure from reduced blood flow - Liver damage from fluid congestion - Heart valve problems from an enlarged heart - Dangerous heart arrhythmias including sudden cardiac arrest - Pulmonary hypertension - Severe weight loss and muscle wasting (cardiac cachexia) in advanced stages ## Prevention - Control high blood pressure with medication and lifestyle changes - Manage diabetes effectively - Maintain a healthy weight - Exercise regularly - Don't smoke and limit alcohol consumption - Treat coronary artery disease and other heart conditions early - Get regular checkups and cardiac screenings as recommended ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Is heart failure the same as a heart attack? ### How long can you live with heart failure? ### Can heart failure be reversed? ### What is ejection fraction? ### Can you exercise with heart failure? * * * ## Sources 1. Heart Failure. American Heart Association . 2. Heart Failure - Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic . 3. Heart Failure. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute . 4. Heart Failure Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . 5. 2022 AHA/ACC/HFSA Guideline for the Management of Heart Failure. American Heart Association / American College of Cardiology . Medical Disclaimer This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reviewed By infoMD Editorial Team Last reviewed: March 18, 2025 In This Article [Overview](#overview)[Symptoms](#symptoms)[Causes & Risk Factors](#causes-risk-factors)[How It's Diagnosed](#how-it-s-diagnosed)[Treatment Options](#treatment-options)[Living With Heart Failure](#living-with-heart-failure)[Potential Complications](#potential-complications)[Prevention](#prevention)[Frequently Asked Questions](#frequently-asked-questions)[Sources](#sources) ### Quick Facts Type Chronic Affects Adults over 65, those with prior heart attacks, high blood pressure, or diabetes Prevalence Approximately 6.2 million American adults live with heart failure Treatable Manageable with medications, devices, and in severe cases, heart transplant See a Specialist Cardiologist or Heart Failure Specialist ICD-10 Code I50 Advertisement Was this page helpful? 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