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Unrecognized Heart Failure in Elderly Patient with COPD.
H H Rahman1, M H Rashid, S Israt
1Dr Hasan Hafizur Rahman, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Sheikh Hasina Medical College, Tangail, Bangladesh;
Mymensingh Medical Journal : MMJ
|April 8, 2021
Summary
Undiagnosed heart failure is common in elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A study found 24% of COPD patients had unrecognized heart failure, highlighting the need for cardiac assessment in this population.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) significantly impact elderly individuals' quality of life, functional status, and healthcare costs.
- While both conditions are well-studied, the prevalence of heart failure in stable COPD patients remains under-researched.
- Diagnosing the cause of respiratory symptoms can be difficult in patients with co-existing heart failure and COPD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of previously unrecognized heart failure in elderly patients diagnosed with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 patients aged 40 years and above with a general physician diagnosis of COPD in a stable phase.
- Data was collected via questionnaires and relevant investigations after obtaining informed written consent.
- Statistical analysis included calculating mean ± SE and using unpaired Student's t-test for significance.
Main Results:
- Twenty-four percent (24%) of the 100 participating COPD patients were found to have previously unrecognized heart failure.
- This suggests a significant proportion of COPD diagnoses may mask underlying cardiac conditions.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac status evaluation is crucial for elderly patients diagnosed with COPD.
- Early identification of concomitant heart failure can improve patient outcomes and management strategies.
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