
A fresh look at Health


Heart failure means the heart cannot pump blood around the body as well as it should; it does not mean the heart has stopped. Symptoms can include breathlessness during everyday activity or when lying down, unusual tiredness, dizziness, swollen ankles or legs, coughing at night and sudden weight gain.
Although it cannot usually be cured, medicines, rehabilitation and lifestyle changes can ease symptoms and help keep the condition stable. Take prescribed medicines and attend regular reviews. Seek medical advice if symptoms appear or worsen; call 999 for severe breathing difficulty. The links below explain diagnosis, treatment, management and available support.