Heart Failure

Overview

Heart failure is a long-term condition in which the heart becomes less effective at pumping blood around the body. Despite the name, it does not mean the heart has stopped working — rather, it cannot function efficiently enough to meet the body’s needs.

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide expert care and comprehensive support for patients living with heart failure, helping to improve quality of life and manage symptoms effectively.

Types of Heart Failure

Symptoms of bradycardia vary depending on how well the heart is able to pump blood throughout the body. Some people

• Left-sided heart failure – the most common type, affecting the left ventricle’s ability to pump blood to the rest of the body
• Right-sided heart failure – when the right side of the heart fails to pump blood effectively to the lungs
• Congestive heart failure – involves fluid build-up in the lungs and other body tissues
• Systolic vs diastolic heart failure – related to whether the heart struggles with pumping (systolic) or filling (diastolic)

Understanding the type of heart failure helps guide the most appropriate treatment.

Stages of Heart Failure

Heart failure progresses in defined stages, helping to guide treatment plans and long-term management. These are based on guidelines from the American Heart Association and the New York Heart Association:

AHA/ACC Stages of Heart Failure

• Stage A – At Risk: No symptoms or structural damage, but risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity are present.
• Stage B – Pre-Heart Failure: There is structural heart damage (e.g. from a heart attack), but no symptoms yet.
• Stage C – Symptomatic Heart Failure: Structural damage is present with current or past symptoms like breathlessness or fatigue.
• Stage D – Advanced Heart Failure: Symptoms are persistent and severe, often requiring specialist interventions or advanced therapies.

NYHA Functional Classification

Used to assess how symptoms impact daily activity:

• Class I: No symptoms during normal activity
• Class II: Mild symptoms during regular activity
• Class III: Noticeable limitations with everyday tasks
• Class IV: Symptoms at rest or with minimal exertion

Our cardiology team uses both systems to accurately assess your condition and determine the most effective treatment strategy.

Common Symptoms of Heart Failure

• Shortness of breath, especially when lying down or during physical activity
• Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
• Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen (oedema)
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Persistent coughing or wheezing
• Weight gain due to fluid retention
• Reduced ability to exercise or complete daily tasks
• Chest discomfort

If left untreated, heart failure can worsen over time and lead to serious complications.

Causes of Heart Failure

Heart failure usually develops as a result of other underlying conditions, including:

• Coronary artery disease
• High blood pressure
• Previous heart attack
• Cardiomyopathy
• Heart valve disease
• Arrhythmias
• Diabetes, thyroid disorders, or congenital defects

Early diagnosis and management of these conditions can help prevent or delay heart failure.

Diagnosis at Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

Our cardiology team uses advanced diagnostics to assess heart function and determine the severity of heart failure:

• Echocardiogram
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Chest X-ray
• Blood tests including BNP levels
• Cardiac CT, if needed

We ensure each patient receives a complete evaluation and an individualised care plan.

Treatment Options

Heart failure is typically managed rather than cured. Treatments aim to relieve symptoms, improve heart function, and prevent progression. Options may include:

• Medications (ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics, etc.)
• Lifestyle changes
• Pacemakers or ICDs (implanted devices)
• Surgical intervention for valve issues or blocked arteries
• Cardiac rehabilitation and long-term monitoring

Our multidisciplinary team will tailor your treatment to match the stage and type of heart failure you have.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Heart failure is a chronic condition that benefits from regular review and long-term care. We offer nurse-led support, follow-up appointments, and education to empower you to manage your heart health confidently.

Why Choose Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

We offer a comprehensive, compassionate approach to heart care, combining the latest diagnostics with expert-led management. Our goal is to help patients with heart failure live longer, healthier, and more active lives.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for expert evaluation and treatment.. Make an appointment with one of our private GPs who can refer you to our specialist cardiologists. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed.

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