8 RiversideHealthcare.org Heart failure doesn’t mean your heart suddenly stops; instead, it’s a gradual decline in its pumping efficiency. It can affect the left, right or both sides of the heart, resulting in a range of symptoms and challenges. “Heart failure is a chronic medical condition,” says Cheri Rogers, NP-C, CHFN, with Riverside Heart & Vascular Institute Heart Failure Clinic. “But just because it is a chronic condition does not mean that it is going to take over your life. Working closely with your health care team, we can help you tailor a plan to manage your heart failure effectively, which could bring you a better quality of life.” Heart failure can be caused by various factors, including coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, valvular heart diseases and infections. Lifestyle choices like smoking, obesity and excessive alcohol consumption can also increase your risk. Your health care team will explore your medical history and risk factors to identify the underlying cause. “If you think you may be at risk for heart failure, a great place to start is talking with your PCP,” says Rogers. “They can help you understand what could be causing your symptoms by running tests and involving a cardiologist if further testing is needed.” Read on for five simple facts to help you understand the basics. The more you know: Heart Failure Edition Cheri Rogers, NP-C, CHFN, Heart Failure Clinic
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