Congestive heart failure is a syndrome wherein the heart cannot adequately pump blood through the circulatory system anymore, thus reducing the blood flow to the different body organs.
Reduced renal (kidney) blood flow signals the kidneys to retain water. The retained water increases the load on the heart and further weakens it. Since blood entering the heart from the veins cannot be pumped out effectively, edema (water retention) of the extremities, and sometimes even of the lungs, may result. The heart enlarges and begins to beat more rapidly as it tries to make up for its inefficiency to pump. Malnutrition can result due to a disrupted supply of nutrients and oxygen to the different body tissues brought about by inadequate pumping of blood.
Probable Causes
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Kidney disease (See Kidney Stone Formation, Glumerulonephritis, Renal Failure)
Probable Symptoms
- Exhaustion even in simple activities such as eating
- Malnutrition
Note: Congestive heart failure may be left- or right-sided. It may also develop gradually or present suddenly with acute pulmonary (lung) edema.
Helpful Dietary Management
- Limit sodium and fluid intake. See Low-salt Diet.
- Lose weight if necessary to lighten the work of the heart. See Reducing (Weight Loss) Diet.
- Eat small frequent meals. Eat foods that are least likely to form gas.
Reference: Healing Wonders of Diet Effective Guide to Diet Therapy p.44 © 2003 Philippine Publishing House ISBN 971-581-013-6
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