CUTTACK: (​Reported by: Debidutta Shibaprasad Nayak): On the occasion of World Health Day, medical experts are raising a red flag regarding the sharp increase in heart failure cases across India. Professor Dr. Deepak Ranjan Das, a leading specialist from the Cardiology Department at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack, shared critical insights into this growing health crisis. 
Heart Failure on the Rise: 3 Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore


The Main Triggers: Diabetes and Blood Pressure

Dr. Das highlighted that the primary reason for the rise in heart disease is the increasing number of people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. These two conditions put immense pressure on the cardiovascular system. Over time, they weaken the heart, leading to what doctors call heart failure. He noted that the lifestyle changes in the modern era have made Indians more vulnerable to these chronic conditions.

Common Symptoms and Frequent Mistakes

One of the biggest challenges in treating heart failure is the delay in diagnosis. People often misinterpret the warning signs. Dr. Das listed the most common symptoms as:
  • Swelling in the feet and abdomen.
  • Shortness of breath during daily activities.
  • Feeling unusually tired or weak.
Many patients make the mistake of attributing these signs to other organs. For example, when a person notices swelling in their body, they often assume it is a kidney problem. If a kidney test comes back normal, they ignore the issue further. Similarly, many people think that shortness of breath is a sign of asthma.
Perhaps the most dangerous misconception is that heart problems always cause chest pain. Dr. Das clarified that a person can suffer from heart failure even if they never experience pain in their chest.

The Importance of Proper Testing

To identify the disease accurately, Dr. Das recommends two vital tests:
  1. ECG (Electrocardiogram)
  2. Echocardiography (Echo)
He emphasized that Echocardiography is the most reliable tool for doctors to determine the exact condition of the heart and confirm heart failure.

A Roadmap to Recovery and Prevention

For those already diagnosed, medical treatment must go hand-in-hand with lifestyle changes. Dr. Das advised patients to:
  1. Reduce salt intake significantly.
  2. Limit water consumption as per the doctor's advice.
  3. Avoid overeating to prevent extra strain on the body.
  4. Strictly control blood sugar and blood pressure levels.

Early Action Saves Lives

Dr. Das urged the public not to ignore even the smallest suspicion of heart trouble. Consulting a specialist immediately can lead to an early diagnosis. Starting treatment before the condition becomes severe is the key to a longer, healthier life.
By spreading awareness across all sections of society, we can successfully tackle this health threat. Education and timely medical check-ups are the first steps toward a heart-healthy future.