In addition to problems in the heart and with high blood pressure, there are several factors that precipitate heart failure when the muscle is weakened. These conditions must be avoided or treated. Problems that can precipitate heart failure in patients with a weak heart muscle or diseased valve include the patient–physician problems listed below.
• Reduction or discontinuation of digoxin or diuretics; the doctor may reduce or discontinue digoxin or diuretics or the patient may stop taking the medications
• The patient may increase the intake of foods containing excess salt
• Increased physical exertion
• Obesity
Other problems such as increased cardiac work imposed on the heart are precipitated by those listed below.
• A marked increase in blood pressure
• Abnormal heart rhythms; e.g., atrial fibrillation
• Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung)
• Infection; e.g., pneumonia, chest, urinary, or others
• Thyrotoxicosis (overactive thyroid) or severe hypothy¬roidism
Progression or complications of the basic underlying heart disease include acute heart attack, several heart attacks, or aneurysm formation. Valvular heart disease causing increased stenosis or regurgitation should also be included.

Страницы: 1 | 2