Heart failure is a condition that results in problems related to the relaxation or contraction of the heart. In essence, the heart is no longer able to perform its essential functions of pumping oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body. 

Among the most common symptoms of heart failure are:

• Shortness of breath
• Decreased functional capacity
• Leg swelling
• Can’t sleep flat
• Wake up during night gasping for air

With the region’s only board-certified, fellowship-trained heart failure specialist and the full resources of an academic health system, including a cardiology fellowship program, Marshall Health provides specialized outpatient care for heart failure works to prevent re-hospitalization. Early referrals help extend life expectancy and quality of life for heart failure patients.

Heart failure care may also include:

• Remote monitoring for devices such as pacemakers
• Outpatient infusion of IV medications. This service includes outpatient management of mild or moderate exacerbation of acute heart failure with IV diuretics, labs and iron infusions as necessary. Treatment is available up to six (6) hours or three (3) visits per week. IV infusion can help reduce the need for inpatient admission and treat exacerbations in the early stages. 
• Cardio-oncology. Heart failure is a side effect of chemotherapy. Our cardiologists and oncologists work collaboratively to help prevent heart failure among chemotherapy patients.
• Pulmonary hypertension care

Marshall cardiologists also provide inpatient consulting services at Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary’s Medical Center for heart failure exacerbations, cardiac shock and mechanical support.