What is Congestive Heart Failure?

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a quite frequent heart condition, produced by a number of causes, including high blood pressure, an old heart attack, leaky heart valves or genetic defects. 

Its manifestations are shortness of breath with effort or even by laying down flat, easy fatigue, fluid retention manifested as swollen legs and in severe cases, even as a swollen abdomen.

There are basically 2 types of Heart Failure, the most common due to decreased pumping force of the heart muscle and it is called Systolic Heart Failure. The other type is due to impaired relaxation of the heart, which contracts well but does not fill up well and it is called Diastolic Heart Failure.

The treatment modalities for these 2 types are very different and a proper diagnosis is crucial. Some patients may have Combined Heart Failure, with both a weak muscle and also impaired filling.

The treatment of CHF includes a restriction in salt intake, oral or intravenous medicines and a special type of 3-lead pacemaker. In extremely advanced CHF cases, treatment may require the implantation of a relatively small external pump or a heart transplant.

Patients may see a great benefit from some new oral drugs and a special 3-lead pacemaker/defibrillator. 

In these cases, the benefit depends greatly in the place in the heart where these leads were positioned and how the settings (timings) of the pacemaker are programmed. However, this is not always recognized or properly done. Dr. Val has dealt with this form of treatment since it early beginnings and he has presented and published articles in this regard.

In situations with severe, advance and chronic heart failure weekly infusions of a drug which will strengthen the heart contraction can be given in our office. 

Are you suffering from Congestive Heart Failure?

If you were diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure and the symptoms have not been satisfactorily relieved; if you are having frequent admissions to hospital because of heart failure; if you had a Pacemaker or a Defibrillator implanted and your symptoms have not improved; than there may be something that needs to be adjusted or changed.

Dr. Val-Mejias and our team are here and ready to serve. For over 15 years we have successfully provided patients with heart care services. 

We are now accepting new patients! If you have heart failure, call us today to schedule a consultation, and start your heart health journey. (316) 425-3337