What does heart failure mean?
Heart failure does not mean that the heart has stopped beating. It means the heart is not filling or pumping well enough to meet the body’s needs.
In some people, the heart muscle does not contract strongly enough. In others, the muscle is stiff and does not fill normally. Assessment helps establish the type of heart failure and the factors contributing to it.
What treatment aims to achieve
Treatment aims to reduce symptoms, support daily activity, lower the chance of hospital admission and improve long-term outcomes. The plan depends on the type and severity of heart failure and other health conditions.
Heart failure often requires continuing care. Medicines, follow-up and a suitable lifestyle plan work together; regular review helps the team adjust care as needs change.
Assessment and changes in symptoms
Assessment includes a discussion of symptoms and medical history, examination and appropriate investigations. In some cases, a blood test such as BNP helps support assessment alongside other findings.
New symptoms or a deterioration in an established condition need clinical review. A person who becomes suddenly unwell may require hospital assessment; the appropriate setting depends on the clinical situation.
An individual management plan
Medicines are selected and adjusted by the treating team, with monitoring where needed. The aim is both symptom control and longer-term benefit. Do not change doses without advice from your clinician.
Diet, salt and fluid advice, suitable activity and management of other conditions should be discussed as part of your plan. Fluid advice needs to be individualised, especially when heart or kidney function is affected.
Selected patients may be assessed for a cardiac device or other treatment. A device is not required for everyone with heart failure.
Working with your care team
Follow-up is an opportunity to review symptoms, medicines, test results and any difficulties with your care plan. Bring your medication list and relevant reports to the consultation.
Ask which changes in symptoms should prompt a call, when urgent assessment is needed and how to access help between planned appointments. The aim is a clear plan you and your care team understand.
YOUR QUESTIONS
A little more clarity.
Has my heart stopped if I have heart failure?
No. Heart failure describes a problem with the heart’s ability to fill or pump effectively, not a heart that has stopped beating.
Will everyone need the same treatment?
No. Treatment depends on the type of heart failure, symptoms, other conditions and clinical assessment.
Should I drink more or less fluid?
Follow the fluid advice given by your treating team. The right amount varies, so do not follow a general fluid target without discussing your situation.