07/11/2025
Acute heart failure happens when the heart suddenly struggles to pump blood effectively. It can develop quickly or worsen existing heart problems and requires urgent evaluation and treatment.
Heart failure is more common in men, particularly those with cardiovascular risk factors.
⚠️ Watch for key signs and symptoms:
➡️ Breathlessness
➡️ Swelling in the ankles
➡️ Fatigue or reduced exercise tolerance
➡️ Nocturnal cough.
Immediate assessment is critical, including ECG, echocardiography, chest X-ray, and blood tests like NT-proBNP. Treatment depends on the patient’s condition and may involve diuretics, vasodilators, or other medications to stabilise heart function.
Learn more about the diagnosis & treatment of acute heart failure in BMJ Best Practice: https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/62