Looking after a loved one who is living with heart failures

Heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, impacts the lives of millions globally.

If you care for someone, such as a parent, friend, or family member who has experienced heart failure, you can play a vital role in their health and well-being.

Heart failure is more common among older people. Fortunately, with early treatment, most of those affected can still enjoy a good quality of life. There are many causes of heart failure. In older people, it usually relates to problems with the left heart ventricle. By understanding heart failure and its impact on physical and emotional health, you can make a significant difference in your loved one’s life. Below are some tips for those supporting someone living with heart failure due to problems on the left side of the heart.

Disclaimer: The checklist is not a substitute for medical advice – always seek professional help. Remember, healthcare professionals will not share information about a patient unless they have been permitted to do so.

How This Information Can Help You

Understanding and managing Chronic Heart Failure

Recognise key symptoms like breathlessness, swelling, and fatigue, agree and follow a care plan.

Managing Heart Failure Medication

Understand the role of medications, potential side effects, and the importance of regular health check-ups and medical reviews.

FAQs

Explore common questions regarding chronic heart failure, covering topics from medication adherence to the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Find information and services to help you understand and care

Links and signposting to experts and charities devoted to helping you understand heart failure and care for someone who is living with this condition.

Heart Failure Guides

Chronic Heart Failure - A Primary Health Care Checklist

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Taking Statin Tablets and Their Side Effects

Heart Failure Frequently Asked Questions

Discover essential information and insights on heart failure.

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Worsening heart failure in older adults can manifest as increased shortness of breath, especially during activities or while lying down, more pronounced swelling in the legs, ankles, lower back (around the sacrum) and feet, sudden weight gain due to fluid retention, and episodes of severe fatigue or weakness. If you notice any of these symptoms in your loved one you should ensure they get appropriate medical advice.

Heart failure can be caused by a variety of conditions that damage or overwork the heart muscle. It can arise from problems on either side of the heart. Heart failure due to problems with the left heart chamber are most common. Common causes include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, previous heart attack, cardiomyopathy (diseases of the heart muscle itself), heart valve disease, congenital heart defects, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a type of heart failure where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to a buildup of fluid in the body. This congestion can cause swelling in the legs and ankles, fluid accumulation in the lungs (leading to shortness of breath), and other symptoms like fatigue and decreased exercise capacity.

Heart failure is usually classified or staged using the NHS classification system

Class 1 – you can undertake ordinary levels of exercise without experiencing symptoms
Class 2 – you are comfortable at rest but ordinary levels of exercise trigger mild symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, palpitations
Class 3 – you are comfortable at rest but ordinary levels of activity trigger marked symptoms eg fatigue, breathlessness, palpitations
Class 4 – you experience symptoms at rest and cannot carry on any physical activity without marked discomfort

Clinicians use these stages to guide and monitor treatment.

In someone living with multimorbidity, signs that heart failure is worsening may include increased shortness of breath, especially during rest or minimal activity; swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen due to fluid buildup; sudden weight gain from fluid retention; fatigue or weakness that is more severe than usual; and episodes of dizziness or confusion. If your parent suffers from multiple chronic health conditions, worsening heart failure may also exacerbate symptoms of their other illnesses. It’s important to closely monitor these signs and consult a doctor or nurse promptly, as the management of heart failure can be more complex in the presence of multiple health conditions. For tips on managing multimorbidity in older adults, read our guide.

Yes, Type 2 Diabetes can progress over time, especially if not properly managed. Consistent management and lifestyle adjustments are key to slowing its progression and reducing the risk of complications. Common complications relate to the effects of diabetes on small blood vessels supplying the eye, nerves and kidney. There are strong links between diabetes and circulatory and heart conditions so stopping smoking, and managing body weight, exercise, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels are all vitally important.

Understanding and managing Chronic Heart Failure

Heart failure often involves symptoms such as shortness of breath, swollen ankles and feet, and fatigue. Early diagnosis can be key to managing and treating heart failure effectively. Effective treatment also entails lifestyle changes, medicines, and regular monitoring and reviews. Cardiac rehabilitation programmes can also be helpful and some people with the condition need to alter their diet. Treatment and care will depend on the cause, the severity of the condition and the presence of other conditions such as diabetes, kidney or lung disease. This means that following an individualised care plan is essential to limit symptoms and reduce complications.

Living with heart failure can increase the risk of developing depression, so be alert to this possibility and get medical support as soon as possible.

Managing Heart Failure Medication

For those living with heart failure, medication can be very effective for preventing complications and relieving unpleasant symptoms. However, if used incorrectly, some heart medication can have significant side effects, such as dehydration, dizziness or kidney problems. It is important that if your loved one is on this type of medication, they take their medicines effectively and are carefully monitored by their nurse or doctor.

Looking after a loved one who is living with heart failures

Heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, impacts the lives of millions globally.

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How This Information Can Help You

Understanding and managing Chronic Heart Failure

Managing Heart Failure Medication

FAQs

Find information and services to help you understand and care

Heart Failure Guides

Chronic Heart Failure - A Primary Health Care Checklist

Explaining blood sugar levels

Taking Statin Tablets and Their Side Effects

Heart Failure Frequently Asked Questions

What is a sign of worsening heart failure in older adults?

What causes heart failure?

What is congestive heart failure?

How is the severity of heart failure classified?

What are the signs that heart failure is worsening in someone with multimorbidity?

Can Type 2 Diabetes worsen over time?

Understanding and managing Chronic Heart Failure

Managing Heart Failure Medication