Open Accessibility Menu
Hide

Specialized care for patients
with Heart Failure

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart muscle has become weaker or stiffer than normal. This typically occurs gradually over a period of time and makes it difficult for the heart to pump enough blood and oxygen to meet the body's needs.

When this happens, blood that should be pumped out of the heart backs up into the lungs and other parts of the body. This is why many people with heart failure experience shortness of breath or swelling in the extremities, such as the legs. Because of this, heart failure is sometimes called congestive heart failure or CHF.

Heart failure can happen in two ways. Systolic heart failure (or heart failure with a reduced ejection fraction) occurs when the heart muscle becomes weak and enlarged. The heart muscle cannot contract or pump blood well.

Diastolic heart failure (or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction) is present when the ventricles become stiff. The stiff muscle cannot relax between contractions, which prevents the chambers from filling with enough blood.

Where to get help

King's Daughters Heart Failure Clinics can assist patients live their fullest life possible by managing their illness and reducing symptoms. The Clinics are staffed by experienced, compassionate, dedicated health professionals, including advanced practice registered nurses and RNs.

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has recognized UK King's Daughters for demonstrated expertise and commitment in treating patients with heart failure. The recognition was awarded based on rigorous onsite review of our ability to evaluate, diagnose and treat patients with heart failure through pre-hospital care, early stabilization, acute care, transitional care, clinical quality measures and more.

If you would like to know more about the management of Heart Failure, please give us a call at (606) 833-6397.

A Guide to Living Your Best Life

King's Daughters guide for patients living with Heart Failure provides useful information about how your heart works, what Heart Failure is, common causes, types and symptoms.

The book also provides important information on how to better manage heart failure symptoms: the importance of daily weights, low-salt eating, medications, and fluid restriction. When to call your healthcare provider, information about our Clinic and other resources are included.

You'll also find information on how to look for sodium in the foods you eat; fluids that should be counted in your daily intake and ideas on managing thirst; and the importance of exercise.

Heart Failure Clinic
(606) 833-6397