What condition is described as congestive heart failure (CHF)?

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is characterized by the heart's inability to pump blood efficiently, which leads to an accumulation of excess blood and fluids in various parts of the body, particularly the lungs. This condition occurs when the heart cannot fill with enough blood or cannot pump blood effectively. As a result, this inefficiency causes congestion and fluid buildup in tissues and organs, including the lungs, which can lead to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, fatigue, and swelling in the legs or abdomen.

Understanding CHF involves recognizing that it is a chronic condition that can result from various underlying health issues, such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, or prior heart attacks. Therefore, the description accurately reflects the essential mechanism behind CHF, distinguishing it from other conditions where heart function might either be enhanced or temporarily altered, such as in cases of increased heart rate or changes in blood flow.