Congestive heart failure

Definition

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other tissues. This can result in symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and ankles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nutritional management in CHF often involves reducing sodium intake to prevent fluid retention.
2. Patients with CHF may require a diet rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium to support heart function.
3. Fluid restrictions are commonly recommended for individuals with severe CHF to reduce the workload on the heart.
4. Malnutrition is a significant risk for patients with CHF due to decreased appetite and higher energy expenditure.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have potential benefits in improving heart function and reducing inflammation in CHF patients.

Review Questions

• Why is sodium reduction important for patients with congestive heart failure?
• What are some dietary recommendations for managing congestive heart failure?
• How does malnutrition impact individuals with congestive heart failure?

Related terms

Edema:

Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues, often seen in legs and ankles of CHF patients.

Diuretics:

Medications that help reduce fluid buildup by increasing urine production, commonly used in managing CHF.

Cardiomyopathy: A disease of the heart muscle that can lead to congestive heart failure due to weakened cardiac function.