LVF (Left Ventricular Failure)

Overview:
Left Ventricular Failure (LVF) occurs when the left ventricle—the main pumping chamber of the heart—becomes weak and is unable to circulate blood efficiently throughout the body. This often develops as a complication of heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, long-standing high blood pressure, or previous heart attacks. LVF commonly results in fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary congestion), leading to shortness of breath, fatigue, and breathing difficulties.

Causes:
LVF is most often caused by conditions that damage or overwork the heart muscle, including:

• 1. Coronary artery disease
• 2. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• 3. Heart valve disorders
• 4. Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• 5. Cardiomyopathy

Other risk factors, such as diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle, further increase the likelihood of LVF.

Symptoms:
Symptoms of LVF may appear gradually or suddenly, depending on severity. They include:

• 1. Breathlessness, especially during exertion or when lying flat
• 2. Persistent fatigue and weakness
• 3. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (edema)
• 4. Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• 5. Nighttime coughing or wheezing
• 6. Difficulty breathing even at rest in severe cases

Treatment:
The treatment goal is to enhance heart function, ease symptoms, and prevent complications. Options include:

• 1. Medications such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, and aldosterone antagonists
• 2. Lifestyle modifications like reducing sodium intake, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking
• 3. Advanced therapies such as a ventricular assist device (VAD) or heart transplant in severe cases

Precautions:
Patients should closely manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, while also limiting fluid and salt intake. Monitoring symptoms such as sudden weight gain, worsening breathlessness, or swelling is crucial. Regular follow-ups with a cardiologist ensure timely adjustments to treatment.

Prevention:
Though LVF may not always be preventable, reducing risk factors significantly lowers the chances of developing it. Preventive measures include:

• 1. Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar
• 2. Maintaining a healthy body weight
• 3. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
• 4. Staying physically active
• 5. Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet

Expert Care in Lucknow:
For specialized care in Left Ventricular Failure (LVF), visit Medlife Research & Trauma Center. We provide advanced diagnostic facilities, evidence-based treatment, round-the-clock doctor availability, ambulance support, affordable care packages, and Ayushman Bharat card acceptance.