Acute heart failure

Question 1

What is acute heart failure?

Answer 1

Sudden onset of new or worsening symptoms of heart failure. May present with or without a history of HF.

Question 2

What is decompensated HF?

Answer 2

Decompensated HF: when you already have heart failure and patient experiences increased symptoms. More common.

Question 3

What is de-novo HF?

Answer 3

Acute HF without existing HF is known as de-novo HF.

Question 4

What are the most common causes of decompensated heart failure?

Answer 4

-ACS
-Hypertensive crisis
-Acute arrhythmia
-Valvular disease

Question 5

Symptoms of acute heart failure

Answer 5

SOB
Fatigue

Question 6

Signs of acute heart failure

Answer 6

Peripheral oedema
Pulmonary oedema –> Pink frothy sputum
Increased JVP
Cyanosis
Bi-basal crackles

Question 7

What is the management?

Answer 7

Initial management
1. IV loop diuretics e.g. Furosemide

Question 8

When do you stop BBs in patients in AHF? 3 intances

Answer 8

1. HR <50bpm
2. 2nd or 3rd degree HB
3. Shock