Heart Failure Flashcards
1
Q
What is heart failure?
A
A long-term condition characterised by the inability of the heart to pump blood efficiently or properly
2
Q
What are the causes of heart failure?
A
- Coronary artery disease
- High BP
- Cardiac inflammation (and long-term systemic inflammation)
- Chronic arrythmias
- Myocardial Infarction (MI)
- Cardiomyopathies
- Infections (endocarditis, pericarditis etc)
- Valve disease/problems
- Chronic kidney disease
- Heavy alcohol use
- Recreational drugs
- Chemotherapy
3
Q
What are the symptoms of heart failure?
A
- Dyspnoea
- Angina
- Fatigue
- Ankle, foot, leg and/or abdominal oedema
- Arrythmias
- Apnoea and sleep apnoea
- Orthopnoea
- Peripheral cyanosis and clubbing
- Syncope
- Chronic cough (with minimal expectoration or blood)
- Decreased alertness or trouble concentrating
4
Q
What is a likely cause of heart failure?
A
Chronic hypertension
