Quick version
Heart failure means that the heart is unable to pump blood as well as it should. Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath and swollen legs. To find out if you have heart failure, an ECG and blood test (NT-proBNP) can provide important answers.
Heart failure means that the heart can no longer pump blood
This leads to oxygen and nutrients not reaching the body as they should, which negatively affects the entire body. Heart failure can develop slowly (chronic heart failure) or come on suddenly (acute heart failure). The condition is most common in the elderly, but can affect people of all ages. Over 250,000 Swedes live with heart failure today.
Common causes of heart failure are high blood pressure, heart attack, heart valve disease and myocarditis. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, there are good opportunities to slow down the progression of the disease and feel better.
Common symptoms of heart failure – the signals to watch out for
- You experience fatigue and lack of energy – even with light exertion
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or when lying flat
- You get swollen legs, ankles or abdomen due to fluid retention
- The heart rhythm becomes fast, irregular or pounding
- Nocturnal cough, sometimes with the need to sleep with several pillows
The symptoms often come on insidiously in chronic heart failure, which means that many people do not connect the signals as problems in relation to the heart. In acute heart failure, you may experience severe shortness of breath, cold sweats, paleness and anxiety – a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
How is heart failure diagnosed?
To reliably diagnose heart failure, a combination of tests is required:
- ECG: Records the heart's electrical signals. The ECG shows if there are rhythm disturbances, signs of a heart attack or overload of the heart.
- NT-proBNP: A blood test that measures a hormone that rises when the heart is overworked. High values are typical of heart failure and are often used as an initial screening.
If both the ECG and NT-proBNP indicate heart failure, an ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography) is often performed to assess the heart's pumping ability more accurately.
When should you get tested?
You should get tested if you have several of the following symptoms:
- Constant fatigue or lack of energy
- Shortness of breath during everyday activities
- Swollen legs or weight gain due to fluid
- Have had a heart attack, high blood pressure or diabetes
Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications and significantly improve quality of life.
Quick response gives peace of mind
By combining ECG and NT-proBNP, you quickly get a picture of how your heart is doing. A simple examination can determine whether your symptoms are due to heart failure – or if there are other causes that need to be treated. The earlier heart failure is detected, the better the chance of effective treatment.
Treatment of heart failure
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent deterioration. Common treatment options include:
- Medications: ACE inhibitors and ARBs lower blood pressure and relieve the heart. Beta-blockers reduce heart rate and protect the heart. Diuretics help reduce swelling by expelling fluid.
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, reducing salt intake, weight control, and regular physical activity are important interventions.
- Advanced treatment: For some patients, a pacemaker, defibrillator (ICD), or heart surgery may be necessary.
With the right treatment, many people can live an active and meaningful life despite heart failure. Regular follow-up is crucial to adjust treatment as needed and prevent new complications.