Congestive Heart Failure

A complex syndrome or clinical condition that results from the inability of the heart to maintain adequate circulation of blood due to lack of strength or other factors. There are two types of heart failure (systolic and diastolic) which are characterized by symptoms that can differ from person to person. Systolic heart failure happens when the heart's ability to pump blood decreases. The heart cannot push enough blood into the circulatory system, causing blood coming into the heart from the lungs to back up and leak fluid into the lungs (pulmonary congestion). Diastolic heart failure occurs when the heart has trouble relaxing or resting. The heart muscle becomes stiff and cannot fill with blood, causing fluid buildup (most often in the feet, ankles, and legs) and lung congestion. Heart failure develops slowly over time and can have a large impact on a person's life and ability to perform daily activities of living, such as dressing, bathing, and getting around.