Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, Orchard
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Heart Condition

Heart Failure

Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart muscle is unable to pump blood as effectively as the body needs. It does not mean the heart has stopped, it means the heart needs support. With the right treatment, many people with heart failure live full, active lives.

01Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms associated with Heart Failure include:

  • Breathlessness, on exertion or when lying flat
  • Swelling of the legs, ankles or feet
  • Persistent fatigue and weakness
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Reduced ability to exercise
  • Waking at night short of breath

02Causes & Risk Factors

  • Coronary artery disease and previous heart attack
  • Long-standing high blood pressure
  • Heart valve disease
  • Abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation
  • Diseases of the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy)
  • Diabetes

03When To See A Cardiologist

See a cardiologist if you have increasing breathlessness, leg swelling or fatigue that limits your daily activities. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin sooner and protects your heart function. Sudden severe breathlessness is an emergency, call 995.

04Treatment Approaches At CCI

Heart failure is managed with medications that ease the heart’s workload and improve its function, alongside treatment of the underlying cause and lifestyle support. Some patients benefit from implantable cardiac devices such as a CRT pacemaker. Dr Lee provides ongoing, structured monitoring to keep the condition stable.

05Diagnostic Tests & Procedures

Tests and treatments Dr Lee may recommend for this condition:

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is heart failure the same as a heart attack?

No. A heart attack is a sudden blockage of blood flow to the heart. Heart failure is a longer-term reduction in the heart’s pumping ability, though a heart attack can lead to it.

Can you live a normal life with heart failure?

Many people with well-managed heart failure live active lives. Treatment, monitoring and lifestyle adjustments make a significant difference.

Get an expert heart assessment

Early diagnosis makes a real difference. Book a consultation with Dr Lee Chee Wan at Cardiac Centre International.

Book An Appointment