What Are the Causes of Congestive Heart Disease?

Congestive heart disease is a condition that occurs when the heart is not able to pump effectively anymore. Thus, the body does not get an adequate supply of blood. Congestive heart disease is treatable, but may eventually lead to cardiac-related death.

Effects

• Congestive heart disease may cause shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, fast heartbeat, chronic cough, leg and feet swelling, poor appetite, nausea and concentration difficulties.

Coronary Artery Disease

• The most common cause of congestive heart disease is coronary artery disease. This condition causes the heart muscle to weaken over time.

Other Causes

• Other causes of congestive heart failure may include hypertension, damaged heart valves, heart inflammation, sleep apnea, drug use, alcoholism and diseases such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, diabetes, anemia, lupus and emphysema.

Treatment

• Congestive heart failure may be treated with medications that control conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Also, the drug Digoxin may be used to strength the heart's contractions. Pacemakers and heart pumps may also be used to treat congestive heart disease.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Lifestyle modifications can be used to prevent and treat congestive heart disease. Such modifications may include avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, reducing sodium intake, consuming a dieting low in cholesterol and fat and exercising regularly