Heart failure, made clear.

No. It means the heart has trouble meeting the body’s needs. It may squeeze weakly, or have difficulty relaxing and filling. Either problem can cause fluid buildup.

A normal ejection fraction does not rule out heart failure.

An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to look at pumping, filling, and valves. Your symptoms, examination, and blood tests also help guide the diagnosis.

Report increasing swelling, breathlessness, or changes in your usual activity.

Medicines can improve outcomes and symptoms. Water pills treat excess fluid. Some people benefit from a device that coordinates the lower chambers, called CRT.

Follow your personal weight, salt, fluid, and medication plan. Do not change a water pill without instructions.