What is Heart Failure?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 6.7 million adults 20 years or older in the United States have heart failure and it was responsible for 13.9% of all causes of death in 2022.

Janie Gomez, RN, BSN, PCCN, CHFN, Heart Failure Program Coordinator, Northern Nevada Medical Group, shares information about lifestyle changes that can help prevent heart failure.

What is heart failure?

The body depends on the heart to deliver oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to the cells. Heart failure occurs when the heart is no longer able to do that, the body is no longer able to function as normal. This can cause the body to have to work harder to function and can manifest as various symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, chest palpitations, coughing and more.

Who is at risk of developing heart failure?

Risk factors for developing heart failure include:

• People 65 years and older are more likely to develop heart failure due to aging, weakening and stiffening of the heart.
• Family history of heart failure.
• Those with unhealthy lifestyles, like smoking, heavy alcohol use and unhealthy diet.
• Other conditions that can increase the risk of heart failure, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and chronic kidney disease.

When should someone seek care if they are experiencing cardiac symptoms?

If you are experiencing chest pain, which is a potential symptom of heart failure, shortness of breath, chest palpitations, or swelling of the legs, seek emergency care right away. Early detection of heart failure can improve outcomes and minimize complications for patients, as intervention will be able to reduce stress and damage of the heart.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or get to the emergency department closest to you.