Congestive heart failure can be the ultimate result of a
number of diseases, or lifestyle choices, that damage the heart. Some of these
can be prevented. Others cannot be prevented but can be treated successfully.
Exercise like jogging can prevent CHF |
Some examples of illnesses or lifestyle choices that can
lead to congestive heart failure are as follows:
Coronary heart disease (coronary artery
disease), including heart attack
·
Uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension)
·
Uncontrolled high cholesterol
·
Diabetes
·
Congenital heart disease (a heart condition that
one is born with)
·
Infection (particularly some common viruses that
can rarely severely affect the heart and cannot be reliably predicted or
prevented)
·
Damage to the heart valves (possibly from IV
drug use)
·
Alcoholism
·
Smoking
In some cases, a family history of heart failure can be
present. Many cases are a combination of factors, and in other cases, the cause
is unknown.
If you have congestive heart failure, you are at increased
risk of developing pneumonia. You probably should receive both the pneumonia
vaccination and annual flu shots. Ask your health care provider to be sure.
source: emedicinehealth