American Heart Month: Common Myths Debunked

In honor of American Heart Month, we asked Keerthana Karumbaiah, MD, director of the heart failure clinic at the Shannon Regional Heart Center, to address common myths about congestive heart failure and heart health.

Contrary to common belief, heart failure is a chronic condition, not a sudden medical event where the heart suddenly stops beating. “Heart failure means the heart is not pumping blood as efficiently as it should, so the body doesn’t get enough oxygen and nutrients. This can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, legs and abdomen, hence the term ‘congestive’,” explained Dr. Karumbaiah.

Heart failure can be attributed to a wide variety of conditions and lifestyle factors, like:

• Coronary artery disease/heart attacks
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes mellitus
• Heart valve disease
• Long-standing alcohol or illicit drug use (like methamphetamine or cocaine)
• Viral infections
• Genetic factors

Like many other cardiac conditions, it’s possible for patients to be in heart failure without realizing or identifying symptoms. “Early heart failure can be silent or cause vague symptoms like fatigue or shortness of breath, and many people dismiss these symptoms as ‘aging’ or being out of shape until they worsen,” Dr. Karumbaiah said. “Common symptoms can be shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, sudden weight from fluid retention, fatigue, weakness, persistent coughing or wheezing, or reduced exercise tolerance.”

Based on the symptoms above, congestive heart failure can be diagnosed using an echocardiogram and EKG, on top of physical exams and blood tests. According to Dr. Karumbaiah, early diagnosis and strong adherence to treatment make a huge difference for patients living with congestive heart failure. “Some forms are partially reversible, especially when treated early. Others are chronic but very manageable with modern therapy. Many patients live full, active lives.”

Diet and lifestyle choices are a crucial part of successfully managing congestive heart failure. The following changes may help heart failure patients thrive:

• Heart-health, low-sodium diet – salt causes the body to retain fluid, which makes the heart work harder and worsens swelling and shortness of breath. Even “hidden salt” in canned or restaurant foods can trigger flare-ups.
  • Limit salt intake
  • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • Choose lean proteins like fish, poultry and legumes
  • Limit processed and packaged foods
  • Avoid excess sugar and refined carbs
• Exercise – Regular, moderate exercise is encouraged. Walking, stationary biking, or light strength training can improve stamina, reduce symptoms and improve mood.
• Reduced alcohol consumption - Alcohol should be limited or avoided, especially in cardiomyopathy. In some cases, alcohol can directly weaken the heart muscle.

To learn more about the heart failure clinic at Shannon Regional Heart Center, visit https://www.shannonhealth.com/services/cardiology/.