Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a long-term health condition that affects every part of your life. Getting expert care and attention for your CHF can help you manage the disease and improve your quality of life. Arjun Makam, DO, and his team at Makam Medical in Anaheim, California, provide the time and attention you need to manage your CHF. For a holistic approach to CHF from an experienced team, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a type of heart disease in which the heart is unable to adequately pump oxygen-rich blood to meet the needs of your body. CHF may occur if your heart isn’t able to fill up with enough blood or isn’t strong enough to pump. 

CHF is a long-term, serious health condition that affects every aspect of your life. 

What are the types of congestive heart failure?

Heart failure falls into one of two categories, left-sided heart failure or right-sided heart failure. Under these categories, there are different types, including:

Heart failure with reduced left ventricular function (HF-rEF)

With HF-rEF, the lower left chamber of your heart (left ventricle) is enlarged. This structural change makes it too hard for your heart to adequately pump blood to the body.

Heart failure with preserved left ventricular function (HF-pEF)

With HF-pEF, the lower chambers of your heart are too thick and stiff and can’t fill up with enough blood to meet your body’s demands. 

Right-sided heart failure

Left-sided heart failure usually causes right-sided heart failure. With this type, your heart can’t pump enough blood to your lungs to pick up oxygen. 

What happens during a congestive heart failure consultation?

Dr. Makam and his team at Makam Medical take a comprehensive approach to CHF. They spend time listening intently to your concerns so they can create the most effective treatment.

During your heart failure consultation, they ask detailed questions about your symptoms and how it affects your daily life. They review your medical and family history, usual diet, exercise habits, and daily routine.

The team may also run diagnostic tests to better understand the severity of your CHF, such as a blood test, electrocardiogram (EKG), or stress test. 

What are the treatments for congestive heart failure?

At Makam Medical, the team considers education more important than medication when treating CHF. They talk to you about your heart failure and what you can do to reduce symptoms. 

They work closely with you, developing a plan that improves heart health and quality of life. At Makam Medical, Dr. Makam and his team are flexible with their time so you get the care and attention required to help you manage your CHF.

For patient-centered care to congestive heart failure, call Makam Medical or schedule an appointment online today.