Breathless: Cardiac Output and Congestive Heart Failure Case Review

A moderately obese 63-year-old male presented with symptoms of extreme breathlessness that had been worsening since last three months. He also complained of peripheral edema, jugular vein distension, and a frothy and productive cough. The patient had tachypnoea with labored breathing and he had tachycardia with an irregular pulse. In the past history, the patient had history of a cardiac infarction and had undergone coronary artery bypass surgery. Based on the patient's medical history, physical exam, and test results, he was diagnosed to be suffering from congestive heart failure resulting in pulmonary and systemic edema. After initial treatment, the patient was prescribed a low sodium diet, diuretics, a positive inotropic agent (Digoxin), and an ACE inhibitor (Captopril) to reduce fluid overload and reduce the workload onthe heart. While these are effective methods for reducing the symptoms of congestive heart failure, it is an irreversible disease and researchers are searching for alternative forms of treatment. Our case review deals with the recent updates in the treatment protocols and prognostication of patients for better patient outcomes.