Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalisation in the UK and globally, with approximately 900,000 people living with heart failure in the UK.
Heart failure is a long-term condition that typically gets worse over time, and is often the results of another, underlying condition.
The causes of heart failure are varied, but common causes include coronary heart disease, heart attacks, cardiomyopathy and high blood pressure. Other conditions such as arrhythmias, valve disease and congenital heart disease may also cause heart failure.
If you are living with or have had a heart condition, if you are a carer, friend or family member of someone with a heart condition, we want to hear from you.
In this section you can find out more about the types, causes, diagnosis, treatment and ongoing preventative measures for Heart Failure
1. Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF) • Ejection fraction (EF) ≤ 40% – The heart muscle is weakened and cannot pump blood effectively. • Most commonly caused by coronary artery disease, previous heart attacks, or cardiomyopathy. • Primary treatment focuses on medications (ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, SGLT2 inhibitors) and device therapy (ICDs, CRTs).
2. Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) • Ejection fraction ≥ 50% – The heart muscle contracts normally but is too stiff to fill properly. • Often linked to hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation. • Management focuses on treating underlying conditions, diuretics for symptom relief, and lifestyle interventions.
3. Heart Failure with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFmrEF) • Ejection fraction 41-49%, an intermediate category. • Shares treatment approaches with HFrEF, though clinical management is evolving.
Stages & Classification of Heart Failure
NYHA (New York Heart Association) Functional Classification
NYHA Class Symptoms Class I No symptoms with normal activity. Class II Mild symptoms with moderate activity. Class III Marked limitation, symptoms with mild exertion. Class IV Severe symptoms, even at rest.
ACC/AHA Staging System (Disease Progression)
Primary Causes
Other Contributing Factors
Common Symptoms:
Other Key Symptoms:
Key Diagnostic Tests:
1. Medications
First-Line Therapy (Proven to Improve Survival):
Symptom-Relief Medications:
2. Device-Based Therapy
For Severe Heart Failure (Stage C/D)
Lifestyle Modifications & Cardiac Rehabilitation
Complications of Heart Failure
If Left Untreated, HF Can Lead To:
Disclaimer: If you have a heart condition, please consult with your GP before making significant changes to your lifestyle.
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