Age and gender differences in physical heart failure symptom clusters

Abstract

Background: Gender differences exist in structure and function of the heart resulting in HF symptom variation. Previous HF symptom cluster research described symptom clusters that were linked to functional status, mortality, quality of life and rehospitalization. Age and gender differences between cluster groups were described in one study. Objectives: Identify physical HF symptom clusters and explore age and gender differences between clusters. Methods: Secondary analysis study of adults with HF. Cluster analysis was conducted using hierarchical agglomerative clustering techniques. A pictorial dendrogram output displays clusters. Results: Three symptom clusters were identified in this sample of 133 older HF patients that differed by gender (p = 0.04), age (p = 0.00) and beta blocker use (p = 0.01). Symptom clusters were consistent with worsening HF, acute HF and chronic HF. Conclusion: Symptom clusters differ by age and gender. Education should be directed at increasing patient awareness of their individual symptom clusters.