What Are the 4 Stages of Heart Failure?

Congestive heart failure refers to any cardiovascular conditions that cause damage to the heart and makes it work less efficiently than it should. Conditions including coronary artery disease, heart attacks, high blood pressure, heart defects, and cardiomyopathy fall under heart failure.

Below are some of the most effective ways to help manage, slow down, and prevent your heart condition from getting worse:
 
1.  Regularly Monitor Your Symptoms
2.  Address Your Physical and Mental Health Throughout Treatment
3.  Implement a Healthy Diet With an Emphasis on Heart Healthy Foods
4.  Incorporate Exercise Into Your Everyday Routine
5.  Regularly Check Up With Your Cardiovascular Specialist

The second stage of heart failure, otherwise referred to as stage B, occurs when you have been officially diagnosed with systolic left ventricular dysfunction. Those in stage two do not have a history with cardiomyopathy, valve disease, or prior heart attacks. It is typically diagnosed through a special diagnostic test called an echocardiogram. Simple lifestyle changes and heart medications are often effective during this stage. If your heart has incurred serious damage, a surgery such as a valve repair, valve replacement, or coronary artery repair may be suggested.

Heart failure is a chronic condition that worsens overtime without the proper treatment and management. Symptoms of heart failure can progress anywhere from a few months to decades. It is considered an unpredictable condition that can go from 0 to 100 fairly quickly. That being said, with the right treatment you can live a very long and happy life.

The last stage of heart failure, also known as stage D, presents itself in patients with systolic heart failure. If you have systolic heart failure and have not been able to control your condition with maximum care and resources, you may be classified under the final stage. Treatments such as a heart transplant, ventricular assist device, research therapies, and palliative care can help improve your quality of life during this stage. A life saving surgery or research study may be required to extend your life for as long as possible.

The warning signs and symptoms of a heart attack include:
 
– Chest pain, tightness, and discomfort
– Jaw pain or discomfort
– Neck, back, shoulder, or arm pain
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Shortness of breath
– Chronic fatigue and lethargy
 
The warning signs and symptoms of a stroke include:
 
– Numbness in the face, arm, or leg
– Sudden confusion
– Difficulty speaking and understanding others
– Vision difficulties
– Loss of balance
– Lack of coordination
– Dizziness
– Trouble walking
– Severe headache
 
For further information about heart failure treatment at Sterling Heart Care, schedule an appointment with one of our experts. Cardiovascular health is essential for your overall health and wellbeing. The primary role of your heart is to pump nutrient-rich blood, supply vital oxygen, and remove toxins throughout your body. With the proper treatment. Sterling Heart Care looks forward to your visit soon! We serve patients from Buffalo NY, Kenmore NY, Pine Hill NY, Sloan NY, Cleveland Hill NY, and Kaisertown NY.