Heart failure impacts more than 6 million adults in the U.S. — and the number keeps growing. Each year, more than 670,000 Americans over the age of 45 receive a heart failure diagnosis for the first time.
Given that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., everyone should know the common warning signs of heart failure and how to prevent it.
Here, Mary Keebler, MD, and Sideris Facaros, MD — UPMC experts in cardiovascular disease — answer your questions about heart failure.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Heart Failure?
Dr. Facaros: The most common symptom we see is shortness of breath during everyday activities. That can include things as simple as walking or even going to bed. Other symptoms can include:
- Fast heart rate.
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
- Fluid retention in the legs.
- Nausea.
- Palpitations.
If you’re having any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor.
At What Age Should I Start to See a Cardiologist to Discuss Heart Failure?
Dr. Keebler: There isn’t an exact age when you need to see a cardiologist (a doctor who specializes in heart health). Instead, you should know the symptoms of heart failure and talk to your doctor if you have any.
We see people as young as 18 and as old as 95, so age isn’t the main factor. You should base your decision on whether to see a cardiologist on how you’re feeling, symptoms you’re having, and what’s going on with your heart.
Can Heart Failure be Hereditary?
Dr. Facaros: Yes — we call that genetic cardiomyopathy.
At UPMC, our genetic cardiomyopathy clinic has a process for genetic counseling. They look for gene mutations and give us an idea about the risks for certain people.
How Does Heart Failure Differ From a Heart Attack?
Dr. Keebler: A heart attack occurs when you have a blockage in one of the arteries in your heart, and blood flow cannot get to the heart muscle. However, since heart attacks weaken the heart muscle, they can lead to heart failure.
When it comes to heart attack symptoms, most people will have chest pain or pressure.
But for women especially, heart attack symptoms may present in different ways, such as:
- Heartburn that just doesn’t go away.
- Shortness of breath.
- Sweating.
- Upset stomach.
It’s important for women who have these symptoms to speak with their doctor. They may represent angina and indicate that they’re at risk for a heart attack.
How Can You Prevent Heart Failure?
Dr. Facaros: Maintaining a healthy diet, lifestyle, and weight can help protect you from heart failure.
High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because it doesn’t always show symptoms. But if left untreated, high blood pressure can cause heart failure.
It’s important to take high blood pressure seriously. You should take prescribed medicine every day and monitor your levels to make sure they’re in the range your doctor recommends.
You should also maintain a balanced diet, one rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
What Are the Treatments for Heart Failure?
Dr. Keebler: There’s a range of treatments for heart failure that can slow the disease and, in some cases, even heal the heart.
Though medical therapy (medications and/or other interventions) is the mainstay of treatment for most people with heart failure, there are also advanced options. These may include a heart transplant or a surgically implanted pump called a ventricular assist device.
A complete evaluation will help determine if these advanced options can significantly improve your quality of life and chance of survival.
Why Should People Choose the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute for Care?
Dr. Facaros: We tailor our care to each person at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. Our team is dedicated to providing access to advanced heart and vascular treatment options.
To learn more about the services offered at the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute, visit UPMC.com/HVI.