Congestive heart failure (CHF) typically occurs due to another condition that damages the heart. However, family history of CHF and some genetic mutations may increase someone’s risk of developing the condition.
According to the
Blood returning to the heart builds up in bodily tissues, causing swelling, usually in the legs and ankles.
In this article, we explain what CHF is and how genetics play a part. We also look at other causes and how individuals can reduce their risk of the condition.
CHF is a progressive condition in which the heart slowly loses its ability to pump enough blood to supply the organs with oxygen.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the condition affects approximately
Although CHF can develop at any age, it usually occurs in people over the age of 65 years. The condition starts slowly and gradually worsens as more fluid builds up in the tissues. Medical experts refer to this buildup of fluid as congestion.
Over time, the fluid accumulates in the legs, ankles, and feet, causing swelling. The swelling can occur in other parts of the body as well, including the lungs. This can lead to shortness of breath, and even difficulty breathing when lying down.
The CDC states that while people can manage CHF with medications and lifestyle changes, the only cure is a heart transplant.
Two different forms of CHF are systolic CHF and diastolic CHF. Systolic CHF develops when the left ventricle is unable to contract strongly enough during a heartbeat, meaning that the heart is unable to pump enough oxygen around the body.
Diastolic CHF occurs when the left ventricle does not fully relax between heartbeats, meaning that it does not completely fill up with enough blood to pump around the body.
Many of the risk factors for systolic CHF — such as high blood pressure, or hypertension — can run in families.
Diastolic CHF typically occurs due to untreated heart conditions, such as arrhythmia. Some of these conditions can also have a hereditary component.
CHF
The
Also, the AHA estimates that the likelihood of a heart defect recurring in the family is between 2 and 15%. However, having a congenital heart defect may increase the risk of developing CHF.
According to the
However, while significant advances in research are improving the understanding of the role of genetics in CHF, more research in this field is necessary.
The authors of
Dilated cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is where the heart muscles thicken. Doctors often diagnose this condition in children and adolescents.
In addition, while genetic mutations can cause heart failure, not everyone with the gene will develop the condition. Environmental factors also play a role. However, identifying people at high risk of CHF, even before they experience any symptoms, may improve their overall outlook.
The
Other cardiovascular conditions that may be hereditary
- thoracic aortic aneurysms, where the aorta balloons and can rupture
- arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat
- familial hypercholesterolemia, where very high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol may lead to a heart attack
- coronary artery disease
Not all risk factors for CHF are hereditary. According to the NHLBI, other risk factors
- Age: The likelihood of developing CHF increases with age.
- Race or ethnicity: African Americans are most likely to have CHF. Additionally, they may develop CHF at a younger age and may have a more severe condition than other populations.
- Sex: Although CHF is common in both males and females, females often experience worse symptoms than males.
- Underlying medical conditions: Some long-term health conditions increase a person’s likelihood of CHF. These include:
- diabetes
- thyroid disease
- kidney disease
- severe lung disease
- sleep apnea
- obesity
- Injuries to the heart: Previous heart attacks and some chemotherapy and radiation treatments can damage the heart muscle, raising the CHF risk.
- Lifestyle habits: A lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diets contribute to a higher risk of CHF.
While it is not possible to avoid all the risk factors for CHF, making some lifestyle changes can help a person improve their heart health.
The
- reaching or maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- reaching or maintaining a moderate body weight
- limiting alcohol consumption
- quitting smoking
The NHLBI also notes that some emotions, particularly anger, may trigger a heart attack and that long-term stress is a recognized risk factor in heart disease. It is therefore advisable to find healthy ways to manage stress and cope with emotions.
Eating a heart-healthy diet is also important. This involves:
- eating more vegetables, fruit, and whole grains
- consuming more lean proteins and unsaturated fats
- avoiding foods high in salt, such as processed meats, and choosing low sodium or reduced salt options
- cutting down on added sugars
Additionally, getting regular exercise can improve overall fitness. People should discuss any plans to start a new exercise regime with a doctor before starting.
However, the
CHF is a progressive condition where the heart slowly loses its ability to pump blood. While genetics may affect an individual’s likelihood of developing the condition, CHF does not always occur in people with genetic mutations.
There is no cure for CHF, but a person can manage the condition with medication and lifestyle changes.