Heart failure is a disorder that occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood at a rate that meets a patient’s bodily needs. This causes the organs to not receive enough blood and oxygen. 

What are the most common symptoms? 

• Tiredness, fatigue, or weakness
• Swelling in your feet, ankles, legs, or abdomen 
• Trouble breathing when active or laying down
• Racing heartbeat 
• Reduced ability to exercise.

How is it diagnosed? 

If you have any of the symptoms, your provider may run a series of tests to determine if you have heart failure. Some of these include: 

• A blood test known as "brain natriuretic peptide" (BNP): The BNP level is high in people with heart failure.
• An electrocardiogram (ECG): this test measures the electrical activity in your heart. 
• An echocardiogram: this test uses sound waves to create a picture of your heart while it is beating. 
• A chest X-ray: by performing an x-ray the doctor may determine the general shape of the heart and if there is fluid in the lungs. 

A stress test: this test uses physical activity such as running or walking on a treadmill to determine if the heart is getting enough blood when under stress.

Cardiac catheterization: in this test, the doctor puts a thin tube into a blood vessel in your neck, leg, or arm to measure the blood vessels and spot narrowing or blockage.

How is heart failure treated?

To treat heart failure, one or more medications may be used to avoid further complications and slow down the progression of the condition.