Guide To Heart Failure Stages

The concept of heart failure is confusing to many. It sounds like an individual's heart no longer works, and their life is coming to an end. However, that’s not what it means in so many words. It’s a condition in which the heart does not stop beating, but the heart does stop pumping blood well. Since the primary function of the heart is to pump blood through the body so individuals can live a healthy life, this is a significant health problem. It does not mean a person's life is over, but it does mean they need to seek medical treatment right away. Heart failure only gets worse when it’s left untreated.

Learn more about precisely what heart failure is as well as the different stages now.

What Is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is a problem individuals develop when their heart struggles to pump blood like a healthy heart. Their heart is slower, doesn’t work well, and their body struggles as a result. Unfortunately, there are many reasons someone might develop heart failure. Coronary artery disease is one of the leading causes of heart failure. It occurs when the arteries are unable to keep up with the supply and demand of blood and oxygen the heart needs to work properly. An individual's heart cannot breathe correctly when their arteries clog and don’t send enough blood through. Heart attacks are another common cause of heart failure. When this occurs, the arteries are suddenly so blocked that nothing makes it through, and individuals suffer a heart attack. Cardiomyopathy is another common reason individuals might develop heart failure. This is often caused by problems with blood flow, but other issues, such as an infection, can cause it as well.

Learn about the first stage of heart failure next.