Heart Failure occurs when something has
weakened or damaged the heart muscle. The damaged heart is unable
to sufficiently pump the blood as well as it should. As a result of
an inefficient heart pump, other bodily tissues in the body can become
congested with fluids. This excess fluid causes swelling (edema) in
legs, feet, arms or abdomen. Excess fluid can also collect in the lungs
causing shortness of breath and fatigue.
The Heart Failure program at Rapid City Regional Hospital is an outpatient
program. A team of physicians, nurses, exercise specialists, nutritionist,
and others assists patients with their heart failure management. Our
program educates patients on how to manage heart failure. A key part of
heart failure management is modification
of some lifestyle choices.
Heart Failure Program
