New heart failure therapy shows good study results

Conventional therapy often focused on treating the underlying disease. Many patients also had to undergo heart surgery or have a pacemaker inserted. Certain medications can also relieve a weakened heart. In the treatment of chronic heart failure, doctors are now focusing primarily on the dual mechanism of action of valsartan and sacubitril(e.g. in Entresto, available on prescription). The combination proved to be very successful in a study involving over 8,400 test subjects. Sacubitril in particular inhibits an enzyme and causes increased excretion of sodium and water via the kidneys. This lowers blood pressure and relieves the heart muscle.

Typical symptoms of chronic heart failure

The accompanying symptoms of chronic heart failure only appear gradually. The disease is often only recognized late, as the symptoms are similar to those of old age. The consequences are a drop in performance, shortness of breath at the slightest exertion and even fluid accumulation in the lungs. Therefore: treat early! If vital organs are no longer supplied with sufficient blood, their function is impaired. Also important: treat the cause of the heart failure, such as high blood pressure.

Preventing heart failure

The best medicine for the heart is still prevention. You can do a lot with just a few simple measures: give up smoking and alcohol and regulate your body weight . Taking it easy is not recommended: exercise regularly, e.g. Nordic walking. You should also keep psychological stress factors to a minimum.