Congestive Heart Failure & Caffeine

Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to body organs. This causes a build up of fluid in the lungs and other organs. CHF may be caused by chronic hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart valve disease, congenital heart defects and heart muscle disease. Caffeine can aggravate CHF and other heart problems.

Caffeine and Congestive Heart Failure

Doctors advise patients with CHF to avoid drinks and medications that contain caffeine, according to Ohio State University Medical Center. Caffeine is a stimulant and causes increased or irregular heart rate in patients with CHF. Caffeine constricts blood vessels and forces the heart to contract with a stronger rapid force leading to a rapid and irregular heartbeat.

Sources of Caffeine

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Caffeine is a bitter substance that is produced naturally from plants. It has a stimulant effect on the central nervous system and also speeds metabolism. Caffeine increases energy and alertness.

Side Effects of Caffeine

Patients who stop taking caffeine may also experience withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms of Congestive Heart Failure

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Medical treatments can help patients manage symptoms.