This may require medications, surgery, or behavior modification. Digitalis may be given to help the heart muscle contract more vigorously. Intravenous medications may be used to give a faster response, including inotropic drugs, vasodilator drugs, and diuretics. Dialysis may be performed to remove excess fluid in severe cases. In extreme cases, a heart transplant may be considered.
Heart failure is a serious disorder that carries a possibility of reduced life expectancy.
There is no cure, but many forms of heart failure are well controlled with medication and correction of underlying disorders. It may take the form of a chronic illness. Heart failure worsens with infection or other physical stressors. Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate congestive heart failure may be present. Call your health care provider if you experience chest pain , weakness , fainting , rapid or irregular heartbeat , increased cough or sputum production, sudden weight gain or swelling .