Heart Failure Review

Flashcards created to review key concepts related to heart failure, its causes, symptoms, risk factors, complications, and treatment options.

Heart Failure

A condition in which the heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should.

Coronary Artery Disease

The most common form of heart disease, resulting from plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to heart failure.

High Blood Pressure

A condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, causing the heart to work harder.

Cardiomyopathy

Damage to the heart muscle that can be caused by various diseases, infections, or substance abuse.

Dyspnea

Shortness of breath, often experienced when exerting oneself or lying down, commonly seen in heart failure patients.

Ejection Fraction

A measurement of how well the heart is pumping blood, normally should be 50% or higher.

Left-Sided Heart Failure

A type of heart failure where fluid may back up into the lungs, causing shortness of breath.

Right-Sided Heart Failure

A type of heart failure where fluid may back up into the abdomen, legs and feet, causing swelling.

Diastolic Heart Failure

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, where the left ventricle can't relax or fill fully.

Systolic Heart Failure

Heart failure where the left ventricle can't contract vigorously, indicating a pumping problem.

Myocarditis

Inflammation of the heart muscle, commonly caused by a virus, which can lead to left-sided heart failure.

Arrhythmias

Abnormal heart rhythms that can weaken the heart muscle and potentially lead to heart failure.

Kidney Damage

A potential complication of heart failure, as reduced blood flow can lead to kidney failure.

Lifestyle Changes

Actions such as exercising, managing stress, and reducing sodium intake that can improve heart failure symptoms.

Heart Valve Problems

Issues with the heart valves that may occur due to enlargement or high pressure from heart failure.

Anticoagulants

Blood thinners that may be prescribed to heart failure patients who have atrial fibrillation to reduce clot risk.

Diuretics

Medications that help rid the body of excess fluids and sodium, relieving the heart's workload.

Obesity

A risk factor for heart failure, as excess weight can strain the heart.

Statins

Cholesterol-lowering drugs that may be prescribed if a patient has high cholesterol or has had a heart attack.