CHF

Question 1

Causes of heart failure?

Answer 1

Increased demand (infection, anemia, thyroid, arrhythmia)
Infarct (STEMI, NSTEMI)
Valve disease
Lifestyle: meds, fluids, salt

Question 2

Meds for CHF with survival benefit?

Answer 2

Beta blockers
ACEi
Spironolactone (grade III/IV LV function and NYHA III/IV)
Hydralazine/nitrates in blacks

Question 3

What are the NYHA classes?

Answer 3

I: HF symptoms with heavy exertion
II: HF symptoms with ordinary exertion
III: HF symptoms with less than ordinary exertion
IV: HF symptoms at rest