Heart failure (HF) is a chronic condition where the heart loses its ability to pump blood effectively. This chronic condition can be successfully managed with lifelong treatment and holistic management. However, lack of credible information and awareness, archaic perceptions, and doubts about treatment outcomes contribute to higher levels of stress in patientsleading to mental problems like anxiety and depression. Research suggests that 1 in 5 HF patients undergo depression, with about 48% of these individuals experiencing significant depressive conditions.
Heart Failure is not end of the road
With early intervention and proper medication HF patients can significantly improve their quality of life. Getting the right treatment in timely manner, following cardiologist recommendation, and adhering to prescribed medication schedules are imperative for successful heart failure management.
Regular consultations with a cardiologist can help patients communicate their concerns and doubts at every step of their treatment journey, thereby helping them reduce their stress levels.By combining a disciplined lifestyle to support the primary treatment, they can lead much healthier lives.
According to Dr RK Singh, faculty, Gandhi Medical College and Hamidia Hospital, Bhopal, "With the increasing burden of Heart Failure in India, especially in the younger population, it is necessary to recognize it - as a public health priority. The key reason for the rise in heart failure cases is the growing dependency on sedentary lifestyle, higher consumption of salt, sugar, oxidised fat, processed & refined food in the diet and rising stress levels leading to increase in heart attacks and its causative risk factors. Although, heart failure can be still managed better by regular treatment and regular conversations with a cardiologist and holistic treatment plan can help one manage the condition better."