Heart failure is a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the bodys needs. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Coronary artery disease and heart attack: Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of heart failure. The disease results from the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, which reduces blood flow and can lead to a heart attack.
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Heart conditions: Any damage to the heart muscle, whether because of drug or alcohol use, viral or other infections, or unknown reasons, increases the risk of heart failure. Heart muscle disease or inflammation can also lead to heart failure.
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Congenital heart defects: If the heart and its chambers or valves havent formed correctly, the other parts of the heart have to work harder to pump blood, which may lead to heart failure.
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Irregular heart rhythms: Irregular heart rhythms may cause the heart to beat too fast, creating extra work for the heart. A slow heartbeat may also lead to heart failure.
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Other diseases: Long-term diseases such as diabetes, HIV infection, an overactive or underactive thyroid, or a buildup of iron or protein may contribute to chronic heart failure.
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Lifestyle factors: Smoking, being overweight, eating foods high in fat and cholesterol, and physical inactivity can contribute to heart failure because they increase the risk of developing heart conditions associated with heart failure.
Heart failure can start suddenly after a medical condition or injury damages the heart muscle. However, in most cases, heart failure develops slowly from long-term medical conditions. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional about tests that can be done to decipher whether there are any underlying conditions that may lead to heart failure.
