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Congestive Heart Failure

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Introduction
The heart is like an engine, pumping blood throughout the body. Over time, when this pump cannot distribute enough blood throughout the body to meet its needs, it develops into a condition known as congestive heart failure. When the right side of the heart fails, the lungs cannot pick up oxygen due to the heart’s inability to pump enough blood to them. In contrast, left sided heart failure is related to the heart’s inability to pump an adequate amount of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. Only one side of the heart may be affected, although it is possible for both sides of the heart to be involved at the same time.
Description of the Condition According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood institute (NHLBI), 5.7 million …show more content…
Diabetics are at an increased risk of developing CHF because this disease raises the risk for developing coronary artery disease and high blood pressure, both of which can have long term negative effects on the cardiac muscle (Mayo Clinic, 2015). In addition to diabetes, lung diseases can contribute to weakening the heart. Diseases such as COPD, in which the lungs don’t work appropriately, puts strain on the heart because it has to work harder to distribute oxygen throughout the body, which can lead to the muscle thickening (AHA, 2015). Sleep apnea, or not breathing properly while sleeping, also leads to poor oxygenation and raises the risk of irregular heart rhythms both of which can eventually lead to heart failure (Mayo Clinic, 2015). Additional conditions that can contribute to heart failure include: viral infections leading to myocarditis; too much alcohol intake; tobacco use; and …show more content…
Having knowledge about the contributing factors of the disease, the signs and symptoms to look for, the various diagnostic tests, the medical treatment, adjuvant therapies, and common medications will all contribute to providing holistic care for patients with congestive heart failure.
Conclusion
Though there are a large number of people that are diagnosed with CHF, there may still be questions about the condition that can arise. The information discussed provides general information that can be utilized in the teaching of patients whether in an inpatient or outpatient setting. In the hospital or clinical setting, future treatment by care providers can be anticipated. This includes information ranging from the tests that may be ordered to the medications that may be used in the treatment process. Another important aspect of care is being able to provide care for a patient’s emotional well being as well as their physical well being. Having general knowledge of the resources available in the treatment of patients that range anywhere from chaplaincy to physical therapy. Utilizing these adjuvant therapies in the treatment of patients may be pertinent in the adherence to treatment of these

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