Heart Failure is more common than the average American thinks. Being a cardio surgeon in Westwood, Los Angeles, I have witnessed countless patients who have been diagnosed with heart failure, and some have even reached out for assistance with managing the condition. In that regard, today I will be providing an overview of such a condition, and also outline some points in which you reevaluate your concerns and expectations by seeing an array of specialists.

Now the term Heart Failure is somewhat misunderstood, the basic inlay for the word implies that the heart has stopped humping completely. Yes, this is one of the most common misconception regarding termination and the risk of a heart, However that is far from true, in fact it only implies that optimum blood circulation isn’t being achieved which can lead to blood problems, for instance loss of healthy blood pressure. And therefore many medical conditions including heart strokes arise.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Heart Failure

It’s crucial to consult a doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath, particularly with movement or lying down.
• A cough or wheezing that will not go away.
• Feet, legs and ankle swelling.
• Physical or Mental tiredness or loss in energy.
• A quick or uneven heartbeat.
• A decrease in the ability to work physically.
• The inability to think clearly or to be alert.

Risk Factors for Heart Failure

Heart failure may occur due to the following reasons:

• Hypertension
• A history of coronary artery disease.
• History of heart attacks.
• Suffering from diabetes.
• Having obesity.
• Suffering from sleep apnea.
• Use of certain prescription medications.
• Abuse of drugs or alcohol.
• Having relatives with a heart problem.

Treatment Options Available in Westwood

As a heart and lung surgeon serving in the area of Westwood and Greater Los Angeles, I have different treatment services for patients with heart failure. Every treatment is tailored to the patient and can include the following:

Medical Management

• Drugs that enhance the heart’s performance will be prescribed.
• The patients vital signs and symptoms will be monitored on a regular basis.
• Change in healthy habits.

Surgical Interventions

• Performing coronary artery bypass grafts.
• Repair or replace the valve.
• Implantation of a device such as pacemakers and defibrillators.
• Heart transplant.

Prevention: Taking Control of Your Heart Health

As the saying goes- an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are essential steps to maintain heart health:

1. Manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels
2. Achieve ideal body weight
3. Engage in physical activity on a regular basis (target 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week)
4. Follow a diet low in saturated fat
5. Give up smoking
6. Decrease alcohol intake
7. Reduce anxiety level
8. Go for periodical medical examinations

When to See a Cardiac Specialist

Here are some of the indicators that would suggest you need to seek professional medical assistance:

• Heart failure signs that won’t go away
• A number of heart disease-related risk factors
• Any history of heart issues in your relatives
• Migrating or relocating the dominance of words of the heart.

Expert Care in Westwood

We offer accurate cardiac diagnosis and treatment to the patients based on the latest technological developments and approaches in the realm of surgery at our Westwood facility. We believe that an educated patient is able to make better decisions regarding his or her treatment, so we put great emphasis on patient education.

Schedule a Consultation

Do not hesitate to reach out when you notice symptoms pointing towards heart failure, or when you first commence to harbor concerns of heart failure. Seeking timely intervention poses numerous advantages leading to better results and even quality of life. You may visit our Westwood office and schedule a consultation with us, and let us know how we can assist you in achieving your ideal heart health.