A practical approach to the management of heart failure

The pathophysiology of the serious and disabling problem of heart failure has been confirmed to involve activation of multiple neuroendocrine systems, especially the sympathetic system and renin angiotensin aldosterone system. The results of several large scale clinical trials demonstrate that reduction in morbidity and mortality are possible with currently available drugs. The benefits for the patient can be maximised by early intervention, especially by the family physician as opposed to interventions applied late, which often yield minimal benefit.