What is congestive heart failure (CHF)?
Heart failure describes the inability or failure of the heart to adequately meet the needs of organs and tissues for oxygen and nutrients. This decrease in cardiac output, the amount of blood that the heart pumps, is not adequate to circulate the blood returning to the heart from the body and lungs, causing fluid (mainly water) to leak from capillary blood vessels. This leads to the symptoms that may include shortness of breath, weakness, and swelling.
Causes of CHF
- Existing conditions like Coronary Artery Disease, Diabetes, and Hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Cigarette smoking
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Poor diet high in fat and cholesterol and low in fruits, vegetables, and grains
- Previous heart attacks and congenital heart defects
Merida Can Help
- Dietician
- Physical Therapy
- Medication Management
- Medical Social Work
- Homemaker Services
- Other Medical Needs
Our experienced professional caregivers are here to help patients and their families take on the challenges of CHF. We work to help our patients manage CHF and lead more active lifestyles.
To learn more please call us 1-888-423-1197 and speak to a Merida representative.
