If you have a right sided heart failure, there is a problem with your left ventricle. A right sided heart failure is also known as pulmonary heart disease, in which the right side of the heart fails to effectively pump the blood to the lungs.
Right sided heart failure results from issues with the left ventricle, heart failure, or lung disease.
Blockage of blood can occur in the left ventricle and lungs, which forces the right ventricle to work harder to pump blood. With time the strength of the right side and wear out, and it can begin to fail.
Here in this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms, causes, and preventions for right sided heart failure.
Signs and Symptoms
While some signs and symptoms can be mild, others can be severe. A doctor can diagnose if the symptoms are related to right sided heart failure.
- Awakening at night due to difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath during exercise
- Coughing
- Lightheadedness
- Wheezing
- Vague concentration
- Weakness
- Swollen ankles, legs, or feet
- Reduced appetite
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight gain
If any of these symptoms occur, immediately seek medical treatment. Self-diagnosis isn’t a good idea. Let a professional decide if anything’s serious with your health.
- Shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain, or increased heartbeat
- White or pink phlegm while coughing
- Severe weakness
- Chest pain caused by a heart attack
Causes of right sided heart failure
- Use of drugs such as cocaine
- Diabetes
- Coronary artery disease
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Pulmonary edema
- Pulmonic stenosis
- Congenital heart conditions
- Hypertension
- Sleep apnea
Prevention
It’s not possible to prevent all the risks linked with right sided failure. However, you can take certain steps to lower the risks of conditions that make things worse.
Manage your diabetes
Keep your blood sugar in balance by checking your daily diet. Your doctor may prescribe medication or insulin to control the blood sugar levels.
Exercise regularly
Regular workout maintains good blood circulation and reduces the load on heart muscles.
Plan your diet
Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. Whole grains and dairy products low on fat are also good for you. Cut down the intake of saturated fat, sugar, and cholesterol.
Keep up with your doctor
Never miss regular checkups with your physician. If you notice any change in the symptoms, notify your attendant.
Maintain a healthy weight
A good body weight reduces the load on the heart and improves its health.
Sleep well
See your doctor to manage your sleep apnea so your body can rest properly.
Minimize stress
Take medication or follow other techniques to manage stress which can cause a fast heartbeat.
Drink less
Cut down alcohol intake as it can damage your health.
Stop smoking
Smoking can cause many health issues, including raised blood pressure, fast heartbeat, reduced blood oxygen levels. It’s best to avoid it.
The following steps can help prevent conditions that can lead to right-sided heart failure. Schedule an appointment with EPIC Heart & Vascular Center for more information or diagnosis by calling one of our locations.