Suffering of Heart Failure Similar to Cancer

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The burden of heart failure is well known to physicians, but "nonprofessionals dont realize it," said Dr. Gerald L. DeVaughn, a clinical associate professor of medicine at Drexel University in Philadelphia.

"People given the option of heart failure or cancer might think that heart failure is the choice," he said. "But heart failure is quite lethal. Many cancers have a better prognosis."

Caretakers for people with heart failure should take its effects into account, DeVaughn said.

Symptoms such as dry mouth, constipation and shortness of breath can be improved with medical management, he said, while depression can be treated with medication and counseling.

"If they mention that spirituality is important in their lives, we should endeavor to have them see someone in that area, such as a chaplain," Bekelman said.

Approaches used to improve spiritual well-being in cancer, such as psychotherapy, should also be considered in heart failure, he said.

"People with cancer get all kinds of supportive services, but people with heart failure don't," Bekelman said.

More information

Symptoms and treatment of heart failure are described by the American Heart Association.