Heart failure affects millions of Americans and remains one of the leading causes of hospitalization among older adults, according to federal health officials. Heart Failure Awareness Week, observed each February, aims to increase public understanding of the condition, promote early detection and encourage prevention and proper management.
More than 6.7 million adults in the United States are living with heart failure, and the number is expected to rise as the population ages, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The condition contributes to hundreds of thousands of deaths each year and places a significant strain on the health care system.
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What heart failure is
Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped beating. It occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively enough to meet the body’s needs.
The American Heart Association says reduced pumping ability slows blood flow and can cause fluid to build up in the lungs and other parts of the body, leading to breathing difficulties, fatigue and swelling.
Heart failure may develop suddenly after a heart attack or gradually due to long-term conditions such as high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, heart valve disease or cardiomyopathy. There are several forms of heart failure, including heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, each requiring specific treatment strategies.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms of heart failure often develop slowly and may be mistaken for normal aging or physical deconditioning, according to the Mayo Clinic. Common warning signs include:
- Shortness of breath during activity or while lying down
- Fatigue or weakness
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet or abdomen
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Sudden weight gain caused by fluid retention
- Persistent coughing or wheezing
- Difficulty concentrating or reduced alertness
Doctors advise seeking immediate medical care for severe symptoms such as chest pain, fainting or sudden worsening shortness of breath.
Treatment options
Heart failure is a chronic condition with no cure, but advances in treatment have improved survival and quality of life for many patients.
Treatment plans typically include lifestyle changes, medications and, in some cases, medical devices or surgery. The American Heart Association recommends:
- Following a heart-healthy diet
- Engaging in appropriate physical activity
- Avoiding tobacco
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Participating in cardiac rehabilitation programs when appropriate
- Reducing sodium intake
Medications commonly used to treat heart failure include:
- Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup
- ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers
- Beta blockers to reduce strain on the heart
- Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists
- SGLT2 inhibitors, a newer class of drugs shown to improve outcomes
Advanced cases may require additional interventions, including:
- Implantable cardioverter defibrillators
- Cardiac resynchronization therapy
- Ventricular assist devices
- Valve repair or bypass surgery
- Heart transplantation
Prevention
Health experts say many cases of heart failure can be prevented or delayed by addressing cardiovascular risk factors early. The Mayo Clinic notes prevention strategies include:
- Controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol
- Managing diabetes
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Managing stress
- Attending regular medical checkups
These steps not only reduce the risk of heart failure but also improve overall heart health.
Why awareness matters
Heart Failure Awareness Week seeks to improve recognition of symptoms and encourage timely medical care. Health officials say early diagnosis and proper management can reduce hospitalizations and slow disease progression. As heart failure continues to affect millions of people, public health experts emphasize that awareness, early intervention and prevention remain key tools in reducing its impact.