Rx of CHF

Question 1

In Class 1 CHF, what are the symptoms, clinical presentation, and treatment?

Answer 1

Symptoms: none
Clinical Presentation: Low EF (<50%)
Treatment: ACEi or ARB, BB

Question 2

In Class 2 CHF, what are the symptoms, clinical presentation, and treatment?

Answer 2

Symtoms: on moderate exertion
Clinical Presentation: Dyspnea on exertion, EDEMA
Rx: DIURETIC (for edema), ACEi or ARB, BB

Question 3

In Class 3 CHF, what are the symptoms, clinical presentation, and treatment?

Answer 3

Symptoms: with minimal exertion
Clinical Presentation: Dyspnea, Orthopnea, PND, edema
Rx: Digoxin, Diuretic, ACEi or ARB, Spironolactone

Question 4

In Class 4 (end-stage) CHF, what are the symptoms, clinical presentation, and treatment?

Answer 4

Symptoms: at rest
Clinical Presentation: Refractory edema
Rx: Above plus combination diuretics, IV vasodilators, transplantation/assist devices.