Heart failure, also called congestive heart failure, is a chronic condition that occurs when the heart doesn't pump enough blood for the body. It is a major public health problem that strikes nearly 500,000 new patients each year. Heart failure can result from hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart attack and diseases of the heart muscle. Chronic congestive heart failure is the leading cause of hospitalization in the elderly.

Heart failure: Why choose UF Health Jacksonville?

The Heart Failure Program at the UF Health Cardiovascular Center in Jacksonville is committed to providing patients with highly specialized care and the most advanced treatment options available.

The program is staffed by University of Florida heart team experts who provide inpatient and outpatient services. Patients of the Heart Failure Program benefit from the multidisciplinary expertise of specially trained nurses, pharmacists and dietitians. The team provides each patient with a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment plan.

Invasive diagnostic procedures

Noninvasive diagnostic procedures

Heart failure: Treatment options

Patients with heart failure can usually be treated successfully with a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to remove excess fluid and improve blood circulation.

Treatment options include drugs that prolong survival by decreasing fluid, improving the pumping capacity of the heart, and improving the shape and size of the heart. Patients also have the availability of devices to improve cardiac function. In addition, many heart failure patients can benefit from a supervised exercise program called cardiac rehabilitation. Patients with advanced heart disease, who are resistant to treatment, may require hospitalization for intravenous medications designed to stabilize their symptoms.