Exercise and heart failure

Abstract

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent disease affecting around 6 million Americans. This number is anticipated to continually increase over time. Common heart failure symptoms include dyspnea on exertion, fatigue, and decreased exercise tolerance among others. These symptoms commonly encourage sedentary behavior and lead to further physical deconditioning. New York Heart Association classification (NYHA) divided patients into four classes based on their functional status: Class I, patients with no HF symptoms with ordinary activity; Class II, those with symptoms of dyspnea or fatigue with ordinary activity; Class III, those having symptoms with less than ordinary activity; and Class IV, those with symptoms at rest (Yancy, et al. 2013). The quality of life and the survival of HF patients are impacted by the individual's ability to perform meaningful physical activities. Inability to perform tasks that contribute to independence, financial stability, or enjoyment of life has a profound negative impact on the quality of life. Clear, accurate, and personalized physical activity guidance for patients can help prevent unnecessary avoidance of physical exertion.