A Study of Precipitating Factors Leading to Hospitalization in Patients of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: The incidence and prevalence of heart failure are rising in India; the aim of this study was to identify precipitating factors leading to decompensated heart failure and evaluate the outcome in patients with HFrEF. Methods: Our study was a prospective observational study which included 132 HFrEF patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure. Result: Mean age of patients was 59?13.2 years; 59.85% were males, 40.15% were females. The most common etiologies of HFrEF were ischemic cardiomyopathy (38.6%), dilated cardiomyopathy (20.4%), valvular heart disease (17.4%). Most common precipitating factors were pneumonia (21.2%), myocardial ischemia (18.8%), dietary indiscretion/excessive oral fluid intake/IV fluids (15.1%), atrial fibrillation with fast ventricular rate (12.9%), non - compliance/inappropriate decrease in HF therapy (12.1%). Pneumonia, myocardial ischemia, worsening of renal function, valvular dysfunction and disease progression were associated with longer duration of hospital stay and high mortality. Conclusion: Pneumonia, myocardial ischemia and noncompliance to therapy and diet are common precipitating factors leading to acute decompensated heart failure in HFrEF patients. Patient education, regular follow - up and vaccination against respiratory infections can reduce hospitalization in HFrEF patients.