Causes of decompensated heart failure
Causes and risk factors Some conditions that may lead to heart failure include: cardiomyopathy, a condition that involves a weakened heart muscle coronary heart disease atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heart rhythm high blood pressure The following factors may worsen preexisting heart failure: High water intake: Medical professionals may recommend limiting fluid intake if a person has heart failure. This helps avoid extra fluid ending up in the blood and making it difficult for the heart to pump. Salt consumption: A 2020 article states that following a diet high in salt may raise blood pressure levels, putting more strain on the heart. The CDCTrusted Source suggest that lowering blood pressure can help reduce the chance of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. Arrhythmia: An arrhythmia is an issue with the heartbeat where it is irregular, fast, or slow. Symptoms may include lightheadedness, sweating, or chest pain. The NHLBITrusted Source states arrhythmias can be serious without treatment and may cause heart failure, stroke, or cardiac arrest. Pregnancy: Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rareTrusted Source form of heart failure that develops during the last few months of pregnancy. It can cause fatigue, low blood pressure, ankle swelling, or palpitations. Some factors may increaseTrusted Source a person’s risk of developing heart failure, such as: age, as heart failure mainly occurs in older adults sitting for long periods having a family history of heart failure having obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes