The right heart receives oxygen-poor blood from these organs and tissues, and pumps it to the lungs to receive a fresh supply of oxygen. If the pumping chambers of the heart do not function properly, blood stays in the lungs or in the tissues of the body. The congestion of these areas with blood and fluid is the basis for the name congestive heart failure. The organs and tissues begin to suffer the effects of the insufficient blood supply. A person with congestive heart failure develops shortness of breath , often when lying flat or exercising.
Shortness of breath can also interfere with sleep and limit an individual's ability to exercise.
As CHF worsens, an individual can develop severe fatigue , chest pain , and even shortness of breath while at rest. Congestive heart failure can be caused by many diseases and conditions. Multiple or severe heart attacks can lead to congestive heart failure because heart muscle is damaged or destroyed. This is one of the more common causes of heart failure. Prevention of congestive heart failure is not always possible.