Congestive heart failure (CHF) is increasingly more common, responsible for more hospitalizations than even cancer. This year alone, over five million Americans will be hospitalized for CHF. In Latin America, CHF is becoming an epidemic. It is important to learn the causes of CHF, the symptoms as well as what can be done to prevent or decrease one's risk of CHF.
Causes of Congestive Heart Failure
Many disease processes can impair the pumping efficiency of the heart to cause congestive heart failure (CHF). In the United States, the most common causes leading to CHF are:
- coronary artery disease,
- high blood pressure (hypertension),
- longstanding alcohol abuse, and
- disorders of the heart valves.
Additional but less known common causes include:
- viral infections of the stiffening of the heart muscle,
- thyroid disorders,
- disorders of the heart rhythm,
- and many others, usually a result of multiple factors.
For those with heart disease, additional habits may lead to developing congestive heart failure. Some of these habits are thought of as "healthy," but are, in reality, dangerous. It is important for anyone with CHF to be aware that over-the-counter (OTC) drugs may cause the body to retain sodium, which has a negative impact on the power of the heart muscle.
Examples of such OTC medications are the commonly used ibuprofen (brand name: Motrin), as well as steroids, some types of diabetic medicine, and calcium channel blockers. Ibuprofen is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and stronger medicines in this category are easily available without prescription in many other countries.
According to Dr. Mercola in "Arthritis Drug May Worsen Congestive Heart Failure" the arthritis drug Enbrel (etanercept) may worsen congestive heart failure (CHF),so doctors are being warned to "use caution" when prescribing this drug to patients with CHF. Ask questions of your medical professional about how your OTC and prescription drugs may be negatively interacting or causing CHF.
Nutrition and Congestive Heart Failure
It is less common for doctors to discuss the nutritional deficiencies patients may have and which can be contributing to CHF risks. For those inclined to a more natural approach to dealing with CHF disease, this may require self-initiated research on the part of the patient.
Dr. Mercola quotes research from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, suggesting that vitamin D deficiencies may be a leading nutritive cause of CHF. Lack of exercise inhibits certain bodily chemical reactions, and may also contribute to CHF. Additionally, too low levels of coenzyme Q10 may also contribute to CHF.
Before embarking on any nutritional or whole foods approach to dealing with your CHF, please make sure to have a doctor who specializes in a nutritional approach oversee any supplementational program implemented in dealing with this disease. Even an incorrect amount of supplements can wreak havoc on bodily systems.
Sources:
Mercola, Joseph. March 5 2003 "Vitamin D Treats Congestive Heart Failure" Quoting the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. January 2003: 1:41(1):105-12.
See Congestive Heart Failure Symptoms
Rachel Schaus - Rachel Schaus, contributing writer,Minnesota-based freelance writer who has written hundreds of articles relating to classical education, ...
