What is the link between CHF and pneumococcal disease?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My dad, aged 65, has congestive heart failure and pneumococcal disease. He is on oxygen already, and this persistent cough and weakness are draining him. His feet are swollen, and his BP has been low for a few days. We are scared that this infection might affect his heart. He is already on medications like Furosemide and beta-blockers. But the doctor has said nothing much about how this infection will affect his heart. Should we ask for different treatments? Is this the same for every CHF (congestive heart failure) patient?
Kindly suggest.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Congestive heart failure is a condition that affects the heart, where the heart is weak and not able to pump blood to the parts of the body. Usually, it can be a complication of pneumonia, or a patient with CHF (congestive heart failure) can have pneumonia. You can take investigations like ECG (electrocardiogram), ECHO (echocardiography), lipid profile, renal function test, RBS (random blood sugar), chest X-ray, sputum M/C/S, and urinalysis. Continue Furosemide and beta blockers. SGLT2 inhibitors and Aldactone should also be considered and prescribed by the cardiologist. If pneumonia has been confirmed, he should be on IV (intravenous) Amoxicillin+Clavulanic acid and Macrolide. Reduce fluid and salt intake so as not to overwhelm the heart. The cardiologist should review him and ask him about the diagnosis because it looks like only CHF is treated.
Please answer these questions so that I can help you more with this. Is he on antibiotics for pneumonia? Is he desaturating for intranasal oxygen?
Let me know if you have any other concerns.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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