Congestive Heart Failure

At Prime Internal Medicine Associates, our family doctors pride themselves on offering comprehensive care to those battling congestive heart failure. Our dedicated team of experienced primary care doctors understands the complexity of this condition and is committed to providing individualized care to each patient. Our approach is comprehensive and multifaceted, focusing not just on symptom management but also on enhancing overall health and quality of life.

We employ a unique blend of holistic and evidence-based techniques to manage congestive heart failure. Recognizing that each patient's journey is unique, we take the time to understand your health history, lifestyle, and personal goals. Furthermore, we offer convenient on-site diagnostic services to ensure our patients have access to the most advanced and accurate testing for monitoring their conditions. Our commitment is to provide high-quality, patient-centered care that is effective for years to come.

Signs and Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure is a condition that occurs when the heart does not pump blood to the rest of the body as well as it should. This can cause blood to back up and cause fluid build-up in the lungs, as well as a host of other concerns associated with poor circulation.

Many patients live their lives not knowing they are living with congestive heart failure, a condition that can become fatal if left untreated. Common signs and symptoms associated with congestive heart failure include:

Shortness of breath
Weakness
Chronic fatigue
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Persistent cough
Swelling in the belly, legs, ankles, and feet
Rapid weight gain
Lack of appetite
Chest pain

If you are experiencing two or more of the symptoms above and feel that you may be experiencing congestive heart failure, we encourage you to come in and see Drs. Katikaneni and Mathew at your earliest convenience. Early intervention can provide patients with positive health outcomes in the long run.

Diagnosing Congestive Heart Failure

There are various tests that can be performed to accurately diagnose congestive heart failure. Our doctors are proud to offer a long list of these tests, including the following:

Blood Tests

Blood tests can offer important insights for diagnosing congestive heart failure. Specifically, increased levels of certain substances in the blood indicate the presence of heart failure. These substances are released when the heart is experiencing stress or strain, providing early indications of congestive heart failure. Blood tests can be performed on-site for your convenience.

Chest X-Ray

X-rays are a common and valuable tool in the diagnosis of conditions like congestive heart failure. By using this simple and quick procedure, doctors can get a detailed look at the patient's heart and lungs. Results may show signs, such as an enlarged heart or fluid in the lungs, that may be potential indicators of congestive heart failure. However, further tests are typically required to confirm your diagnosis.

Electrocardiogram (EKG)

An electrocardiogram, often known as an EKG or ECG, can be a useful tool in diagnosing congestive heart failure. This test records the electrical activity of the heart and can help detect irregular rhythms or patterns that might indicate a problem. If our doctors do see a concern with your heartbeat, they can address it promptly and accordingly.

Echocardiogram (Echo)

An echocardiogram is a type of ultrasound that provides a detailed picture of your heart, showing how well it is pumping. This visual aid can help doctors spot any irregularities or signs of heart failure, providing essential information for the best course of treatment.

Exercise Stress Test

An exercise stress test is a medical procedure used to measure the heart's response to physical exertion in a controlled environment. While the patient exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike, healthcare professionals monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. This test can provide crucial information to diagnose congestive heart failure by highlighting how well your heart handles exercise.

Heart Disease Treatment

Managing congestive heart failure often involves a combination of treatments to help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the condition. Prescription medications play a vital role in this process, assisting in improving the heart's ability to pump blood, getting rid of excess fluid, or slowing down the heart rate over time. In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair any damage done to the heart. These surgical procedures can range from installing devices to help the heart function better to more extensive operations. It's essential to remember that every person's treatment plan is unique and tailored to their specific needs and conditions.