Causes of Heart Failure

Question

A few weeks ago, my uncle was diagnosed with heart failure, and our family has been really concerned. He is 62 years old, and while he has had high blood pressure for years, we never expected something this serious. The doctor explained that his heart is not pumping blood efficiently, but we were not given a detailed explanation of the causes of heart failure and why this happened.

I want to understand what exactly leads to heart failure. I know that conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and coronary artery disease can contribute, but are there other underlying factors? Could long-term stress, poor diet, or lack of exercise be major contributors? He used to eat a lot of fried and salty foods—could that have played a role?

Ayurveda talks about Hridya Rog (heart diseases) and their connection to imbalanced Doshas, especially Kapha and Vata. Could an excess of Kapha (blockages, cholesterol buildup) or Vata (weakened circulation, stress) be responsible for heart failure? Are there ways to balance the Doshas naturally to support heart health?

Another concern I have is whether heart failure can be reversed or managed effectively with Ayurvedic treatments. I’ve read that herbs like Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi are good for heart health. Can they help someone who already has heart failure, or are they more useful for prevention?

Doctor, what are the primary causes of heart failure from an Ayurvedic perspective? Can Ayurveda help manage or improve heart function naturally? What lifestyle or dietary changes should be made to prevent further deterioration of heart health?

I want to ensure that my uncle gets the best care and that we take steps to prevent this condition in the rest of our family. Please guide me on Ayurvedic insights regarding heart failure causes and prevention.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, leading to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention. Common causes include high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, and lack of exercise. Chronic stress, excessive salt and fried foods, and uncontrolled hypertension can weaken the heart over time. Long-term inflammation and cholesterol buildup (atherosclerosis) can also contribute to the condition by restricting blood flow.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, heart diseases (Hridya Rog) are linked to Kapha and Vata imbalances. Kapha excess leads to blockages, fluid retention, and cholesterol buildup, while Vata aggravation causes poor circulation, irregular heartbeats, and stress-related strain on the heart. Ayurveda recommends balancing these Doshas through a Sattvic diet (light, warm, and easily digestible foods), herbal remedies, stress reduction techniques (meditation, yoga), and Panchakarma therapies (like Hridaya Basti for heart health).

To support heart function naturally, Arjuna, Ashwagandha, and Brahmi can help strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, and reduce stress. Garlic, turmeric, and cinnamon are also beneficial for heart health. Lifestyle changes like reducing salt, avoiding processed foods, staying active, and practicing Pranayama (deep breathing) can prevent further deterioration. While Ayurveda may not fully reverse heart failure, it can support cardiac function and improve quality of life. Let me know if you’d like a personalized plan for your uncle!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, which can result from conditions like high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress. A diet high in salt, fried foods, and unhealthy fats can contribute to heart failure by causing cholesterol buildup and weakening the heart’s function. From an Ayurvedic perspective, heart failure may be linked to imbalances in the doshas, particularly excess Kapha (which leads to blockages and cholesterol buildup) and Vata (which can result in weakened circulation and stress). Ayurvedic treatments focus on balancing these doshas, using herbs like Arjuna to strengthen the heart, Ashwagandha to reduce stress, and Brahmi to improve circulation and mental clarity. Along with herbal remedies, lifestyle and dietary changes like reducing salt intake, eating more fresh vegetables and fruits, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques such as yoga and meditation are recommended to support heart health. While Ayurveda may not fully reverse heart failure, it can be an effective part of a comprehensive approach to manage and improve heart function, alongside conventional treatments.

Causes of Heart Failure - #18042

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