Conditions that may lead to heart failure

• Coronary artery disease

When cholesterol and fatty deposits build up in the heart’s arteries, less blood can reach the heart muscle. This buildup is known as atherosclerosis. The result may be chest pain (angina) or, if blood flow becomes obstructed, a heart attack. Coronary artery disease can also contribute to having high blood pressure, which may lead to heart failure over time.

• High blood pressure

Uncontrolled HBP is a major risk factor for developing heart failure. When the pressure in the blood vessels is too high, the heart must pump harder than normal to keep the blood circulating. This takes a toll on the heart, and over time the chambers get larger and weaker.

• Abnormal heart valves

Heart valve problems can result from disease, infection or a defect present at birth. When the valves don’t open or close completely during each heartbeat, the heart muscle has to pump harder to keep the blood moving. If the workload becomes too great, heart failure results.