Pathophysiology of Congestive Heart Failure

The primary symptoms associated with congestive heart failure are peripheral edema and a decreased tolerance for physical activity.39,60 Dyspnea and shortness of breath are also common, especially if the left heart is failing and pulmonary congestion is present (see the next section). In severe cases, cyanosis develops because the heart cannot deliver oxygen to peripheral tissues. 

Congestive heart failure represents one of the major illnesses present in industrialized nations.32,34,53 In the United States, approximately 5 million people have been diagnosed with this disease,34 and the incidence of heart failure (number of new cases each year) is approximately 400,000 to 700,000.39 The prevalence of heart failure also increases in the elderly, and the number of people with heart failure will undoubtedly increase as a larger percentage of our population reaches advanced age.53 This disease is likewise associated with serious consequences, and the prognosis for congestive heart failure is often poor.32,53 Despite 

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PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE TREATMENT STRATEGIES... 

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