What is heart failure?

Heart failure is a medical condition in which the heart is unable to sufficiently pump blood to meet the body's demands for oxygen and nutrients. This impaired pumping capability may stem from various issues, including weakened heart muscles, stiffening of the heart, or problems with the valves that regulate blood flow.

When the heart cannot pump effectively, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and fluid build-up in the lungs and other parts of the body. Recognizing that heart failure can affect individuals of any age due to various underlying conditions, such as coronary artery disease or hypertension, is essential in understanding its broader impact.

In contrast to the other options, heart failure is not merely a temporary situation resulting from intense exercise, nor is it limited to older adults or caused exclusively by valvular heart disease. These misconceptions overlook the complexity and multifactorial nature of heart failure, which can arise from an array of cardiovascular issues and affect a wide demographic spectrum.