Shortness of breath and tiredness? Understand when it could be heart failure

According to the SNS24, heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs or when it has difficulty relaxing and receiving blood properly.

As a result, organs and tissues may no longer receive the oxygen and nutrients necessary to function properly.

The disease can be classified according to the Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction, a measurement obtained through imaging tests that indicates the heart's ability to propel blood to the body.

In heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, this rate is below 40%, which indicates significant impairment of the pumping function. When the result varies between 40% and 49%, the condition is considered intermediate ejection fraction.

In heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, the heart maintains its pumping capacity within expected levels, although it may have difficulty relaxing and filling with blood.

Signs that deserve attention include intense tiredness, shortness of breath, frequent palpitations, swelling in the legs or abdomen, increased urge to urinate at night, dizziness, fainting and unexplained weight gain.

Shortness of breath can also worsen when lying down, leading the person to need more pillows to sleep. The presence of these symptoms does not confirm the disease, but should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Coronary artery disease, heart attack and hypertension are among the main risk factors. High cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, family history of heart problems and genetic changes can also increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of heart failure. Changes in diet, practicing physical activity under guidance, giving up smoking and correct use of medications are usually part of the care.

In some cases, procedures such as catheterization or implantation of cardiac devices may be necessary. When the disease is at an advanced stage and does not respond to other options, heart transplantation may be considered.

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