What condition does congestive heart failure (CHF) refer to?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) refers to a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the demands of the body's tissues. This inadequate pumping function can lead to a range of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention, as the body struggles to maintain proper circulation and oxygenation. CHF can result from various underlying issues such as coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, or previous heart attacks, ultimately leading to a decrease in the heart's ability to function efficiently.

Understanding CHF is critical, as it significantly affects a patient's quality of life and requires careful management and treatment to improve outcomes. The essence of CHF lies in the heart's compromised ability to meet physiological needs, distinguishing it from conditions where heart function is normal or temporarily elevated.