When people hear about heart failure, they tend to think that the ticker has stopped working which isn’t the case. The term “heart failure” (HF) means that the ticker isn’t pumping at the capacity required to meet the body’s need for oxygenated blood. The ticker, to make up for its inability to supply the body, does three things- it enlarges, pumps faster and builds more muscle mass. Although these measures initially mask the effects of HF, the problem doesn’t get resolved, and eventually HF will worsen as the ticker makes up by taking these measures. HF Symptoms: Shortness of breath; difficulty breathing while lying down; weight gain; feeling fatigued or weak; swelling in the feet, legs, ankles or stomach- are common symptoms of HF. Note down if you are suspicious that you are having symptoms of HF so that you are able to discuss it with your doctor. HF Causes: HF causes can vary, and most often it results from other conditions that have weakened or damaged a person’