What is the life expectancy for patients with heart failure?

Question

Hello doctor,

My uncle is 68 years old. He had a myocardial infarction 23 years ago, and another one 13 years ago, after which he underwent four bypass surgeries. In the same year, he was diagnosed with NYHA class II heart failure. He also had diastolic dysfunction, aortic sclerosis, and akinesia in the left ventricle (LV). Currently, he experiences shortness of breath, swelling in the abdomen and feet, wheezing, and coughing. Is he now in stage D heart failure? Also, what is his life expectancy 13 years after the diagnosis of heart failure?

Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

This does not necessarily indicate stage D heart failure. It is more likely stage C. However, he needs to undergo an echocardiogram to assess his ejection fraction, which will help determine the stage. If, despite all medical treatments, he remains symptomatic and is unable to perform any activities, then he may be considered stage D. Intermittent worsening of symptoms can occur in heart disease, which may resolve with medication. You should consider optimizing his medications. His life expectancy also depends on his ejection fraction.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.