Heart Failure Flashcards
State the signs and symptoms of heart failure.
Dyspnea, orthopnea, PND, fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, peripheral edema, elevated JVP, pulmonary crackles, hepatomegaly, ascites.
What are the cardinal symptoms of heart failure?
Dyspnea, orthopnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND), fatigue.
What symptoms are more specific to right-sided heart failure?
Peripheral edema, JVP elevation, hepatomegaly, ascites, anorexia.
What symptoms are more specific to left-sided heart failure?
Dyspnea, orthopnea, PND, pulmonary crackles, cough.
What investigation confirms the diagnosis of heart failure?
Echocardiography – evaluates LVEF, wall motion, valve function.
What biomarker supports heart failure diagnosis and severity?
BNP or NT-proBNP.
What ECG changes might be seen in heart failure?
Arrhythmias, LVH, ischemic changes.
What chest X-ray findings are typical in heart failure?
Cardiomegaly, pulmonary edema, pleural effusion, Kerley B lines.
What blood tests should be done in heart failure?
CBC, U&E, LFTs, TSH, cardiac enzymes.
What is the acute management of decompensated heart failure?
LMNOP – Lasix, Morphine, Nitrates, Oxygen, Position.
What medications reduce mortality in chronic HFrEF?
ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, spironolactone, SGLT2 inhibitors.
What medication is added if ACE inhibitors are not tolerated?
Hydralazine + nitrates.
What is the role of SGLT2 inhibitors in heart failure?
Reduce hospitalization and mortality in HFrEF.
What lifestyle changes are recommended in heart failure?
Sodium/fluid restriction, daily weight, smoking/alcohol cessation, moderate activity.
What is the difference between HFrEF and HFpEF?
HFrEF = EF < 40%; HFpEF = EF ≥ 50%.
What complications can arise from heart failure?
Pulmonary edema, arrhythmias, renal dysfunction, thromboembolism, hepatic congestion, sudden death.
What common triggers worsen heart failure?
Infections, poor medication compliance, excess salt/fluid, arrhythmias.
What advanced therapies are available for refractory heart failure?
CRT, ICD, LVAD, heart transplant.
What is the main goal in heart failure management?
Reduce symptoms, prevent hospitalization, and improve survival.
