Heart failure is a condition in which the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, because the heart is unable to pump effectively. Heart failure can be caused by a number of different conditions and affects older people more often. Coronary artery disease, which causes narrowing of the arteries to the heart muscle or damage from a past heart attach can both contribute to heart failure.

The "failing" heart keeps working but doesn't work as efficiently as it should. It will often be enlarged and almost look "flabby". People with heart failure can't tolerate much physical exertion. Because the heart doesn't pump as effectively, the body's blood supply is not circulating adequately to remove excess fluids and waste products. They will become short of breath and tired. They may develop "edema" or swelling in the lower extremities, especially the feet and ankles. This fluid retention can extend up to the abdomen or lungs. A person with advanced heart failure may be dependent on oxygen, need assistance in ambulating and will be on several medications that help the heart to beat more effectively and reduce the fluids that are being retained.

In a population that is rapidly aging the research for treatment of heart failure has become more important and urgent. There are several new treatments that are showing a lot of promise. Let's look at a few of these treatments.

A study from the University of Alabama that will test heart resyconronization therapy. This research will involve a tiny device implanted just below the skin that will deliver electrical impulses. The hope is that these impulses will stimulate the right and left sides of the heart to beat in a synchronized fashion, and thus be more effective.

A new beta-blocker, Toprol-XL(R) (metoprolol succinate extended release) added to standard treatment in patients with heart failure reduced the overall death rate by 34 percent, according to a large and intense study of the drug.

Another study suggests that patients with heart failure do much better when treated by a board-certified Cardiologist rather than by an internist. Cardiologists are more likely to be familiar with the latest treatment protocols.

For more information on heart failure, here are some resources you can check out:

More Information

Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure
Dr. Rich, About.com Guide to Heart Disease gives a great overview of the heart.

Heart Failure Research
There are several clinical research studies that are presently recruiting patients.

Heart Failure and Stress
This informative patient guide from the American Heart Association will help to make living with heart failure much easier.

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