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Baptist Health is known for advanced, superior care for patients with heart disease and the diagnosis, management and treatment of left-sided heart failure. The American Heart Association awarded us with the Get With the Guidelines® Bronze Award in 2016 for consistent application of quality measures in treating heart failure. What is Left-Sided Heart Failure?Left-sided heart failure is a heart condition where the muscle on the left side of the heart is diminished and the pump doesn't work to the body. Left-sided heart failure is defined not as a disease, but a process. Left-sided heart failure occurs when the left ventricle, the heart’s main pumping power source, is gradually weakened. When this occurs, the heart is unable to pump oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the heart’s left atrium, into the left ventricle and on through the body and the heart has to work harder. What are the Two Types of Left-Sided Heart Failure?
Signs and SymptomsInitially, signs of left-sided heart failure can go unnoticed, but they worsen over time. It is important to see a physician for regular checkups for an early diagnosis and treatment to manage signs and symptoms of heart failure. Left unchecked, this condition can cause complications including kidney and/or liver disease and heart attack. Left-sided heart failure symptoms include:
As these symptoms occur, they cause the heart to try to pump harder, which causes further damage such as:
CausesLeft-sided heart failure can be caused by underlying health problems, ranging from mild to severe. Most commonly, left-sided heart failure is caused by heart related diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD) or a heart attack. Other left-sided heart failure causes can include:
Risk FactorsRisk factors for left-sided heart failure can include:
DiagnosisTo determine if a patient has left-sided heart failure, Baptist Health uses advanced technology to effectively diagnose, inform treatment and carefully monitor the condition. Diagnostic procedures and technologies can include:
Following tests, a physician will use results to classify a patient’s heart failure. The four classes are based on the ability to do normal physical activities and the symptoms caused when doing those activities. PreventionWhile you cannot prevent all risks factors for left-sided heart failure, you can take steps to lower, or in some cases even reverse, your risks of diseases or conditions that can cause or complicate left-sided heart failure.
Treatment and RecoveryTreatment for left-sided heart failure focuses on managing symptoms and treating underlying causes of the condition and mitigating risk factors for heart failure. An individualized plan of treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, and surgery for a device implant, heart reconstruction or heart transplant. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment for left-sided heart failure can include: MedicationMedications can improve cardiac function, and treat symptoms of left-sided heart failure like heart rate, high blood pressure and fluid buildup, as they:
Lifestyle ChangesA few changes in lifestyle can improve signs and symptoms and the quality of life. It is essential to follow a low-sodium, low-fat and low-cholesterol diet. Gentle aerobic exercise is also recommended. Surgery and Other ProceduresIf medications are not effective in managing left-sided heart failure, or if symptoms are severe, surgery may be necessary. Depending on the condition of the heart and underlying cause of left-sided heart failure, surgical options can include device implants, heart repair or heart transplant. Device implant surgeries for left-sided heart failure:
Heart repair or transplant surgeries for left-sided heart failure:
PrognosisThe prognosis for left-sided heart failure varies, depending on the cause of the condition and severity of the symptoms. Some will improve with treatment and lifestyle changes. For others, left-sided heart failure can be life-threatening. Severe symptoms can require a device to be implanted, heart repair or a heart transplant, to prevent further heart damage and complications, including kidney and/or liver failure and a heart attack. ComplicationsLeft-sided heart failure complications can include:
At Baptist Health, you have access to the region’s most comprehensive, multidisciplinary team of specialists and innovative therapies, including many available only through specialized clinical trials. You will appreciate timely appointments and a professional, friendly atmosphere where we take time to listen to your concerns. We work to demonstrate the utmost in excellent care to those who trust us with their health. Featured LocationsSee All Related Locations Next Steps with MyChartDiscover MyChart, a free patient portal that combines your Baptist Health medical records into one location. Schedule appointments, review lab results, financials, and more! If you have questions, give us a call. Which of the following clinical signs indicates left heart failure?Left-sided heart failure symptoms include: Awakening at night with shortness of breath. Shortness of breath during exercise or when lying flat. Chronic coughing or wheezing.
Which of the following is the most appropriate response when a patient with chest pain?Call 911 or emergency medical assistance. Don't ignore the symptoms of a heart attack. If you can't get an ambulance or emergency vehicle to come to you, have a neighbor or a friend drive you to the nearest hospital.
Which of the following types of strokes would most likely present with a sudden severe headache?A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a weak blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain. People who experience this type of stroke, in addition to other stroke symptoms, will likely experience a sudden onset headache or head pain — a warning sign that might not occur during ischemic stroke.
Which of the following structures is the primary pacemaker which sets the normal rate for the heart?The sinus node is sometimes called the heart's "natural pacemaker." Each time the sinus node generates a new electrical impulse; that impulse spreads out through the heart's upper chambers, called the right atrium and the left atrium (figure 2).
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