Heart Failure & Hypercholesterolemia: Case Based Discussion

HEART FAILURE : 

Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle doesn't pump blood as well as it should. When this happens, blood often backs up and fluid can build up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath.

Certain heart conditions gradually leave the heart too weak or stiff to fill and pump blood properly. These conditions include narrowed arteries in the heart and high blood pressure.

Proper treatment may improve the symptoms of heart failure and may help some people live longer. Lifestyle changes can improve quality of life. Try to lose weight, exercise, use less salt and manage stress.

But heart failure can be life-threatening. People with heart failure may have severe symptoms. Some may need a heart transplant or a device to help the heart pump blood.

Heart failure is sometimes called congestive heart failure.

Heart failure

• Shortness of breath with activity or when lying down.

• Fatigue and weakness.

• Swelling in the legs, ankles and feet.

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.

• Reduced ability to exercise.

• Wheezing.

• A cough that doesn't go away or a cough that brings up white or pink mucus with spots of blood.

• Swelling of the belly area.

HYPERCHOESTEROLEMIA

What is the main cause of hypercholesterolemia?

However, the commonest cause is polygenic hypercholesterolemia which results from an interaction of unidentified genetic factors compounded by a sedentary lifestyle and an increased intake of saturated and trans-fatty acids.