Heart Failure
Clinic

Heart failure occurs when the heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should. 

The most important things you can do to prevent further heart issues and live a long, healthy life are:

• Follow a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and added sugars. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily or as tolerated. Walking, swimming, and other aerobic exercise promotes heart health.
• Take all prescribed medications to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and other conditions.
• If you smoke, commit to quitting.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Manage stress levels through yoga, meditation, counseling, or other outlets.
• Get enough quality sleep each night.
• Keep all follow-up care appointments to monitor your health.

The more diligently you follow heart-healthy lifestyle habits and manage other health conditions, the better you will feel. We are here to provide support and guidance every step of the way.

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, generally develops over time. Common causes include an unhealthy diet, inactivity, obesity, genetics, diabetes, and kidney disease. Getting your blood pressure checked regularly is essential in diagnosis, as high blood pressure typically has no signs or symptoms until it reaches a point where it becomes a hypertensive crisis. 

Lifestyle changes and medications can help lower your blood pressure. Our doctors will work with you to develop a plan to keep you healthy and feeling well.

Heart arrhythmias occur when the electrical impulses that coordinate your heartbeat become disrupted. There are different types, with some causes including:

• Heart disease, high blood pressure, or prior heart attack that has damaged the heart’s electrical system
• Congenital heart abnormalities present from birth
• Imbalances in electrolytes like sodium, potassium, or magnesium
• Effects of caffeine, alcohol, medications, or stimulants
• Physical causes like sleep apnea or thyroid disorders
• Stress or strenuous exercise

Sometimes, there is no identifiable cause for an arrhythmia. Whether an arrhythmia is dangerous depends on the type, frequency, and one’s overall heart health. Some may cause bothersome symptoms but are otherwise benign. However, certain arrhythmias can significantly raise the risk of stroke, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest. The good news is very effective treatments are available for most arrhythmias.

A heart attack is a serious medical condition. If you suspect you may be having a heart attack, call 911. Common symptoms of a heart attack:

• Chest pain or discomfort, often described as tightness, pressure, squeezing
• Pain that radiates to the neck, jaw, shoulders, arms, or back
• Shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, sweating
• Abdominal pain
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Fatigue for days leading up to an event

Common diagnostic tests include an EKG, echocardiogram, stress test, CT scan, or cardiac catheterization. The SWCVA team will recommend the appropriate tests based on your symptoms and medical history.