In short
Heart failure means the heart is not pumping blood around the body as well as it should. It does not mean the heart has stopped. It is a long-term condition, but with assessment and treatment many people manage their symptoms and live well.
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency medical care immediately if you have:
- Sudden or severe breathlessness, especially at rest or when lying flat
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fainting or collapse
- Coughing up frothy or pink-tinged phlegm
Busamed Hillcrest 24-Hour Emergency Unit: 031 768 8911. This information must never delay emergency care.
What heart failure means
In heart failure the heart muscle is weakened or stiffened, so it cannot fill or pump effectively. Fluid can build up in the lungs and legs, and the body may not receive the blood flow it needs during activity.
Common symptoms
These symptoms can also have other causes, which is why assessment is important. Tell your clinician if existing symptoms are worsening.
- Breathlessness with activity, when lying flat, or waking at night breathless
- Tiredness and reduced exercise tolerance
- Swollen ankles, legs or abdomen
- Rapid weight gain over a few days, which can reflect fluid build-up
Common causes
Heart failure usually results from another condition that has affected the heart, such as coronary artery disease or a previous heart attack, long-standing high blood pressure, heart valve disease, heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy) or some heart rhythm problems.
How heart failure is assessed
Assessment combines your history and examination with tests. An echocardiogram is central: it shows how well the heart pumps and fills and whether the valves are working properly. Blood tests and other investigations may also be used. At this practice, consultations and echocardiography are offered; the cardiologist will explain whether other tests are needed.
Care is ongoing and individual
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, treat the underlying cause and protect the heart. It may involve medicines, lifestyle and fluid guidance, treatment of valve or coronary disease, and in some people devices. Regular follow-up allows treatment to be adjusted over time. Medication changes should only be made with your treating clinician.
Questions to ask your clinical team
- What has caused my heart failure, and can that cause be treated?
- What does my echocardiogram show about how my heart is pumping?
- Which symptoms or weight changes should prompt me to contact you?
- How often will I need follow-up?
Common questions
Does heart failure mean my heart is about to stop?+
No. It means the heart needs support to pump effectively. It is a long-term condition that is managed with ongoing care.
Can I still be physically active?+
Many people with heart failure benefit from appropriate activity, but the right level differs between people. Discuss it with your treating team before starting a new exercise programme.
Sources and further reading
General patient education written in plain language and informed by the sources above. It is not a substitute for an individual assessment, and does not describe practice-specific fees, referral rules or preparation — please confirm these with the practice.