Cardiac Insufficiency

Cardiac insufficiency, also known as heart failure, is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. This can occur when the heart has been damaged or weakened due to a number of different causes, such as coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, and heart valve problems. When the heart can’t pump enough blood, the body becomes starved of oxygen and other essential nutrients and can’t function properly. Symptoms of cardiac insufficiency include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the feet and ankles, and difficulty exercising. Treatment for cardiac insufficiency may include lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake and maintaining a healthy weight, as well as medications and surgery.