Treatment Of Congestive Heart Failure

There are numerous modern day advancements in treatment of congestive heart failure. Some are outpatient medications that can be administered without hospitalization. However, sometimes a patient does need to be hospitalized for treatment and/or procedures or surgeries.

1. Medications. Diuretics are usually the first measure taken. This medication tends to increase urine production, however it also lowers blood pressure, swelling, and shortness of breath. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are usually prescribed because they reduce morbidity and mortality rates in chronic heart failures. They can also help in reducing myocardial infarctions. Antiotensin-II antagonists are very similar to ACE inhibitors, however they cause fewer side effects. Beta-blockers can be prescribed to help the heart beat at a more restful pace, however the medicine has to be started under very careful supervision. Digoxins can cause nausea and are difficult to stabilize, but it can steady the heartbeat if the atria beats out of rhythm. Vasodilators, digitalis, and anticoagulants will sometimes also be prescribed.
2. Hospitalization. In the scenario of heart failure that is already advanced, a doctor may have the patient stay in the hospital for closer observation and intravenous prescriptions.
3. Procedures and Surgeries. There are several non-invasive procedures and aggressive surgeries that can be performed if needed, such as angioplasty, coronary bypass surgery, valve surgery, and sometimes even heart transplants. For patients who only suffer from mild or moderate heart failure, the survival statistic is eighty percent. However, even with all the modern medical advancements, there is only a fifty percent survival rating for patients living over two years with severe heart failure. The most important thing a patient can do to improve his or her chances of successful treatment is to abide by the doctor’s orders to the best of their abilities.