Health Tip: About Congestive Heart Failure

(HealthDay News) -- Congestive heart failure (CHF) occurs when the heart cannot pump blood well enough to supply the body with all of the oxygen it needs.

According to Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, conditions that can trigger heart failure include:

• Coronary artery disease.
• A heart attack.
• High blood pressure.
• Diseased heart valves or infection of the valves or heart muscle.
• A heart defect that''s present at birth (congenital).

The hospital says you should see your doctor without delay if you have these symptoms:

• Chronic coughing or wheezing.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Shortness of breath, especially when at rest.
• Increased heart rate, regardless of current activity.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Jan. 18, 2007

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