Congestive heart failure treatments
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a persistent heart condition that makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Even though your heart is still working, it can't keep up with the body's needs, which causes fluid to accumulate in various body parts like your legs, feet, and lungs. CHF cannot be cured, but with a proper congestive heart failure diagnosis and lifestyle changes, its progression can be slowed.
Different congestive heart failure treatments
The following are the different types of congestive heart failure treatments depending on its stage and underlying cause.
Stage A: Preventing heart failure before it starts
This is the earliest stage, where individuals may have risk factors for heart failure but haven’t yet developed structural heart disease or symptoms. The treatment includes:
- Regular exercise
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol
- Limiting alcohol and avoiding recreational drugs
- Medications
Stage B: Addressing early heart damage
At this stage, structural changes in the heart may be present, often due to a previous heart attack or heart abnormalities. Treatments include:
- Continuing all stage A treatments
- ACE inhibitors or ARBs
- Beta-blockers
- Aldosterone antagonists
- Surgical interventions
Stage C: Managing symptoms and slowing progression
By this stage, individuals have noticeable symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or fluid retention. Treatment includes:
- Continuation of stage A and B treatments
- Beta-blockers and aldosterone antagonists
- Sodium-glucose transport 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i)
- Diuretics (water pills)
- Hydralazine/nitrate combination
- Heart rate management medications
- Lifestyle changes
- Medical devices
Stage D: Advanced heart failure treatment options
In the most severe stage, patients often experience symptoms even at rest. The treatments include:
- Heart transplant
- Ventricular assist devices (VADs)
- Continuous infusion of inotropic drugs
- Surgical interventions
- Palliative or hospice care
Conclusion
Congestive heart failure is a severe condition, but it is not fatal. Many people with CHF continue to lead happy lives with the proper congestive heart failure treatment, lifestyle modifications, and proactive management. A comprehensive health insurance plan can cover the costs of ongoing treatments, doctor visits, and medications, ensuring you receive quality healthcare without worrying about the associated expenses.