Heart failure is a complex condition that can result from any disorder that affects the ability of the heart to pump blood adequately to meet the demands of the body.Prevalence increases with advancing age.

Causes heart failure:
*Coronary heart disease
*High blood pressure
*Heart valve problems
*Abnormalities of heart rhythm
*Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathies)
*Diabetes Mellitus
*Alcohol related heart disease
*Thyroid heart disease

Over 17.2 million people die each year from cardiovascular diseases, making these the leading cause of death worldwide. Yet 80% of premature deaths from heart disease and stroke ( World Health Organization ).

Heart failure symptoms

*Tiredness
*Shortness of breath
*Limitation of physical activities
*Leg swelling

The good news, however, is that 80% of premature heart failure and strokes are preventable. Healthy heart  diet, regular physical activity, and stop smoking are the keys to prevention.

healthy heart diet: A balanced diet is crucial to a healthy heart and circulation system. This should include plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, fish and pulses, and restricted salt, sugar and fat intake intake.

Take regular physical activity: At least 30 minutes of regular physical activity every day helps to maintain cardiovascular fitness; at least 60 minutes on most days helps to maintain healthy weight.

Avoid tobacco use: Tobacco in every form is very harmful to health – cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or chewable tobacco. Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke is also dangerous. The risk of heart attack and stroke starts to drop immediately after a person stops using tobacco products, and can drop by as much as half after one year.

Check and control your cardiovascular risk:

  • Know your blood pressure: High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, but can cause a sudden stroke or heart attack. Have your blood pressure checked.
  • Know your blood sugar: Raised blood glucose (diabetes) increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you have diabetes it is very important to control your blood pressure and blood sugar to minimize the risk.
  • Know your blood lipids: Raised blood cholesterol increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Blood cholesterol needs to be controlled through a healthy diet and, if necessary, by appropriate medications.