5 Min Read
Listen to article
Loading audio...
Heart failure is a growing health concern across India, with a significant number of cases rooted in ischaemic heart disease, accounting for 71.9% of all heart failure diagnoses. Alarming statistics reveal that the one-year mortality rate for Indian heart failure patients is approximately 23%, underscoring the urgency of timely diagnosis and treatment.
Heart Failure Awareness Day, observed annually in early May (from May 5th to 11th), serves as a global call to action to recognise the symptoms, seek timely medical help, and reduce preventable deaths. The 2025 theme – “Heart Failure Doesn’t Stop Us” – continues to highlight the importance of public awareness, patient education, and collaborative care to lead active lives while managing the condition. Learn about its significance and the global efforts driving change. Benefit from actionable insights to help you spot early warning signs and take control of your heart health.
Synopsis
What Is Heart Failure?
Heart failure is a condition where the heart muscle is weakened, and your heart fails to pump and deliver oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to your body. This leads to symptoms like fatigue and sometimes a persistent cough, making everyday activities such as walking or climbing stairs very difficult.
It is a chronic and serious condition; however, if treated appropriately, many patients with heart failure can effectively manage their condition through medication, a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a good quality of life.
Major Causes of Heart Failure
The primary causes of heart failure, which you should understand, include:
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Congenital heart anomalies lead to blocked blood circulation within the heart muscle. The accumulation of fat inside arteries results in reduced blood oxygen supply. Continuous pressure placed on the heart through this condition causes its weakening, which may ultimately lead to a heart attack. The lack of treatment for CAD makes this condition the primary factor that causes chronic heart failure in adults.
2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Excessive blood pressure requires a more potent heart-pumping force, thickening and stiffening the muscles. The heart becomes weaker until it loses its ability to operate efficiently. Heart failure is one of the absolutely preventable heart conditions.
3. Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy refers to diseases of the heart muscle. It can be genetic or caused by infections, alcohol, or drug abuse. The heart becomes enlarged or rigid, leading to poor pumping ability. This often leads to heart failure in younger adults, too.
4. Heart Valve Disorders
Faulty heart valves affect blood flow within the heart. Stenosis or leakage forces the heart to overwork. Over time, this extra strain damages the heart muscle. Valve problems may result from congenital disabilities, infections, or ageing.
Key Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Heart failure symptoms often appear slowly but worsen over time. Recognising them early can help you avoid serious heart-related complications and get timely medical care.
-
Shortness of Breath: You may feel breathless during activity, at rest, or lying flat in bed.
-
Swelling in Legs, Ankles, or Feet: Fluid builds up in your lower body, causing visible swelling and discomfort.
-
Fatigue and Weakness: You may always feel tired, even with simple daily tasks or light activity.
-
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Your heart may race or skip beats, especially during rest or mild exertion.
-
Persistent Coughing or Wheezing: You might have a chronic cough with white or pink blood-tinged mucus.
-
Sudden Weight Gain: Rapid weight gain over a few days could mean fluid retention linked to heart failure.
Visit the Cardiothoracic Vascular Department in Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road for expert treatment.
Heart Failure Management
Heart failure treatment focuses on improving symptoms, slowing disease progression, and helping patients live longer, more active lives with fewer complications. Experienced heart doctors in Bangalore offer the following treatment approaches:
-
Medications: Doctors prescribe drugs like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and diuretics to reduce strain on your heart and manage symptoms.
-
Lifestyle Changes: Healthy eating, regular exercise, weight control, and quitting smoking are key parts of managing heart failure long-term.
-
Surgical Procedures: To help the heart function properly, some people may need bypass surgery, valve repair, or a pacemaker.
-
Implantable Devices: ICDs or CRTs help regulate heart rhythm and improve pumping efficiency.
-
Heart Transplant: A heart transplantation becomes the only option left when medical management and other measures aren’t enough to help the heart function properly.
-
Ventricular Assist Devices: These are mechanical pumps that are implanted surgically to support heart function in patients with severe heart failure.
Read our blog: Cardiovascular Exercise For Heart Health: How Much Exercise Is Too Much?
Conclusion
Heart failure can affect anyone, but early action makes a big difference. Know the symptoms, causes, and treatments to help you stay in control of your health. With the proper care, many people manage heart failure and live their lives. This Heart Failure Awareness Day, take a moment to learn, share, and support those around you. Awareness saves lives, starting with yours. Speak to an expert cardiothoracic specialist if you notice any warning signs. Prevention and early care are always better than a cure.
FAQ's
Heart failure usually cannot be fully reversed, but early treatment and lifestyle changes can improve heart function and quality of life.
No, a heart attack is a sudden event caused by blocked arteries. Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart weakens over time.
Yes, young adults can develop heart failure due to conditions like cardiomyopathy, congenital disabilities, or infections.
Follow-up depends on severity, but most patients need regular check-ups every 1–3 months to monitor symptoms and treatment.
Yes, chronic stress can raise blood pressure and worsen heart failure symptoms. Managing stress is essential for heart health.
Share this article on:
