Heart failure services in Nenagh hospital
People diagnosed with heart failure can maintain a high quality of life for longer with the support of the specialist clinics in UHL, Ennis and Nenagh and nurse specialists working in hospitals and in the community, writes Ciara Cahill, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Cardiology, University Hospital Limerick.
Although heart failure can sound frightening, it is important that patients understand their heart is not about to stop.
Heart failure describes a heart that is not working as well as it should and can affect people of any age.
It occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood around the body, as the walls of the heart become too weak or too stiff to work properly. It is estimated that 90,000 people live with the condition in Ireland. At University Hospital Limerick, our Heart Failure Service has an active list of 460 patients.
It is important to know what signs to look out for. The most common symptoms of heart failure include fatigue; shortness of breath, especially with activity or when lying flat; swollen feet, ankles or abdomen; and weight gain over a short period of time. Others may include loss of appetite; dizziness or near fainting episodes; rapid heartbeat; changes in mood or a reduced ability to exercise.
Symptoms like these happen when your heart is not pumping blood around the body efficiently, allowing excess fluid to pool in your lungs and elsewhere in your body, most usually your feet and ankles.
RISK FACTORS
However, it’s important to note that heart failure can be prevented. Reducing your risk factors for heart disease will help prevent heart failure, such as not smoking, controlling high blood pressure, eating healthy food, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active and drinking moderately.
Heart failure generally responds very well to a combination of medicines and lifestyle changes. Some people may need operations, pacemakers or similar devices. With modern treatment, people with heart failure can lead long, quality lives.
For those in the Mid-West diagnosed with heart failure, it can be a very daunting prospect. However, the Heart Units within UL Hospitals Group – at UHL, Nenagh and Ennis - are here to support you.