Understanding Heart Failure: What You Need to Know

Heart failure is a chronic condition where your heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should. Despite the name, it doesn't mean your heart has stopped or is about to stop—it means it's working less efficiently than normal. What Causes Heart Failure? Heart failure can develop from various conditions including: - High blood pressure - Coronary artery disease - Heart attack damage - Heart valve problems - Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle) Common Symptoms: - Shortness of breath during activities or when lying down - Fatigue and weakness - Swelling in legs, ankles, and feet - Rapid or irregular heartbeat - Persistent cough or wheezing The Good News: Heart Failure Can Be Managed With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many people with heart failure live full, active lives: 1. Medication Management: Taking prescribed medications consistently 2. Daily Monitoring: Weighing yourself daily to catch fluid retention early 3. Dietary Changes: Reducing sodium intake 4. Regular Exercise: As approved by your doctor 5. Stress Reduction: Managing anxiety and mental health How MyBr Health Helps: Our dedicated cardiac care managers provide 24/7 monitoring, medication support, and early warning alerts. Remote monitoring devices track your weight, blood pressure, and heart rate daily—catching concerning trends before they become emergencies. If you have heart failure, you're not alone. With the right support system, you can live well and avoid hospitalizations.