Anemia in cardiac failure : Needs little more attention

HF is the inability (or reduced ability) to supply oxygen and other nutrients to fulfill the body’s demands. In the process, the heart either fights or flights, and results in symptoms due to hemodynamic alterations, or adversities of neuro-hormonal activation. Now, what is Anemia? Anemia is a condition with reduced or dysfunctional RBCs. that directly interferes with oxygen delivery to tissues. It is not at all a coincidence, the core functions of the heart and blood are strikingly similar and intertwined. While the heart is the powerhouse of the circulatory system, without good-quality blood, the greatness of this vital organ becomes redundant. A mechanically compromised heart should not be burdened with one more compromise, ie with a defective cargo. Fortunately, RBC and Hemoglobin have an adequate reserve, and real metabolic issues happen only after a 30 %  reduction in hemoglobin. During this time the heart works more to compensate by maintaining high output. When HB falls less than 6 to 7 grams the heart itself suffers from hypoxia and goes for intrinsic failure. So, when anemia coexists with cardiomyopathy imagine the tissue’s plight. Anemia in Heart failure  While there are many links between anemia and heart failure few things are worth emphasizing. It can be discussed in 4 categories. Primary anemia that results in heart failure is a separate topic and comes under high-output HF. Anemia as a part of the same...
Source: Dr.S.Venkatesan MD - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Uncategorized anemia in cardiac failure Source Type: blogs