Heart failure
Heart failure means the heart is not meeting the body’s needs, either because the muscle is weakened or because it has become stiff. It has many causes, including heart attack, high blood pressure and valve disease. With current medicines and devices, many people live well with heart failure for many years.
1What you might notice
- Breathlessness with activity or when lying flat
- Swelling of the ankles, legs or abdomen
- Rapid weight gain over a few days
- Tiredness and reduced exercise capacity
Severe breathlessness, especially at rest, needs urgent attention. Call 000.
2Tests that help
- Echocardiogram
Measures pumping function and checks the valves.
- Blood tests including BNP
Help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
- Coronary assessment
Looks for blocked arteries as a cause.
3Treatment options
- Medicines
Several groups of tablets that improve symptoms and protect the heart, started and adjusted step by step.
- Treating the cause
Such as opening blocked arteries or treating a narrowed valve.
- Devices
Referral for pacemakers or defibrillators where they are likely to help.
Seeing Dr Ramzy about this
Ask your GP for a referral to Dr John Ramzy, then request an appointment at Heidelberg, Knox or by telehealth. All new referrals are offered an appointment within two weeks, usually sooner.