February is American Heart Month, signaling a time for all healthcare institutions and providers to rally toward raising awareness about the number one cause of death in the United States – heart disease.
As part of its educational efforts during this important month, Boone Memorial Health (BMH) hosted a Heart Health Lunch and Learn seminar on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, at its Healthy Lifestyle Education Center. The seminar, which was part of the BMH Lunch and Learn Education Series, featured a keynote presentation to a capacity audience, by BMH Cardiologist, Casey Hager, MD, FACC, on the topic of congestive heart failure (CHF).
CHF, a chronic, progressive condition that affects the pumping power of the heart muscle, is estimated to affect 6.2 million adults across the U.S. and is cited as being one of the leading causes of hospitalization in people older than the age of 65.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, certain medications, sleep disorders, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption are among the risk factors for developing CHF. The disease’s symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and edema, which is puffiness of the tissue right under the skin in a person’s feet, ankles, legs, or arms.
CHF can be managed. The primary method of treatment is to prescribe medications that will alleviate strain on the heart by relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow, and lowering blood pressure. Diuretics can also be used to reduce fluid retention.
In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications such as quitting alcohol and smoking, limiting fluid and salt intake, avoiding caffeine, and engaging in regular exercise can help manage symptoms.
It is important to note that the treatment for CHF depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
The BMH Heart Health Lunch and Learn was funded, in part, by the Boone County Community Foundation.
To learn more about Boone Memorial Health and the cardiology services it provides, please visit our Cardiology Care Page.
