What is CHF or congestive heart failure?
CHF is a conditionn in which the heart has difficulty pumping the blood effectively through the body’s system. When someone suffers from CHF the weakend heart pumps less blood than usual. The blood stalls or pools in the body’s tissues, making it even harder for the heart to push blood through the arteries on the next beat. With this congestion or pooling, the legs and ankles swell and fluid collects in the lungs, interfering with the ability to breathe, especially while lying down. The kidneys also have trouble disposing of excess salt and water. The body retains water, increasing congestion and swelling. If untreated, the congestion worsens and can prevent the heart from pumping enough blood to keep the person alive.
