CHF

Posted by Paul on May 04, 1999 at 13:30:41
My father, who is 58, has advanced congestive heart failure. He did
not have a heart attack, but the condition advanced slowly over
the years to the point where, because of shortness of breath he is more
or less homebound. For example, pain and lack of air make it impossible
for him to walk continuosly 100 yards on a flat surface. Do you think
it would be possible for him to survive a 12 hour transatlantic flight for evaluation and treatment in the US?
Any input on this will be greatly appreciated!
Thank you very much!

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on May 05, 1999 at 13:49:45

Dear Paul,

Thank you for your question.  You father's doctor could give a better opinion on his ability to travel but in general if he was stable and perhaps had oxygen to use during the flight he would probably do OK.  We have a heart failure center that specializes in the treatment of this condition offering the full range of treatments from medical therapy to heart transplants.  If you would like him to be seen here you can do so by calling the number below and asking to make an appointment with the heart failure center.  Or you can use the international office to help you coordinate your travel plans, lodging and appointments.  They also provide translators if needed.  The number for the international office is 216.444.8184.

Here is some additional information on heart failure:
Heart failure, or congestive heart failure (CHF) is a syndrome of low heart output, shortness of breath and swelling in the extremities.  The most common cause of heart failure is ischemic (secondary to blockages in the arteries).  Other common causes are hypertensive (high blood pressure), viral, valvular and idiopathic.  The diagnosis of CHF is made by symptoms and testing of the heart.  An echocardiogram or heart catheterization is usually done to measure the function of the pumping chamber.  Other investigations may be performed depending upon the cause of the CHF.
Treatment of heart failure can be medical or surgical.  If failure is due to blockages or valve problems then surgery is often recommended.  Medical management includes digoxin, ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors and diuretics.  Newer evidence has shown that low dose beta-blockers improve symptoms and survival in patients with CHF.  End stage CHF is treated with heart transplantation if the patient is a candidate.  
CHF is a common problem and there are new treatments being developed.  It is a chronic problem and must be followed closely by her doctor with adjustment of her medication as needed.  
Further information can be found at:
http://www.healthanswers.com/health_answers/search_get_answer/forums/circulatory/frame1.htm
Information provided here is for general educational purposes only. Only your doctor can provide specific diagnoses and treatments. If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please Call 1 - 800 - CCF - CARE for an appointment at Desk F15 with a cardiologist.