Heart Failure Symptoms and Causes: What You Need to Know

Heart failure is a growing health problem in Indonesia, especially among older adults and people with conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which include stroke and heart disease, are the leading cause of death in Indonesia, responsible for around 34-35% of total deaths in 2019.

Stroke is currently the biggest contributor, followed by ischemic heart disease (IHD). While "heart failure" sounds alarming, it does not mean the heart has stopped, it means the heart isn’t pumping blood as well as it should, leading to fluid buildup and less oxygen reaching the body’s organs.

Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes of heart failure can help patients seek medical attention early - often improving outcomes and quality of life. Whether you are a Bali resident, an expat, or visiting for medical tourism, Bali International Hospital is ready to support your heart health with international-standard care.

Common Symptoms of Heart Failure in Indonesia

Many people delay seeing a doctor because they mistake heart failure symptoms for general fatigue or aging. But heart failure often involves specific warning signs that should not be ignored:

• Difficulty breathing, especially during activity or when lying flat
• Fatigue and weakness that interfere with daily activities
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen due to fluid buildup
• Irregular or rapid heartbeat, even when at rest
• Persistent cough or wheezing, sometimes with white or pink mucus
• Reduced ability to exercise or walk long distances
• Sudden weight gain, typically from retained fluids
• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
• Trouble concentrating or feeling confused
• Chest pain, especially during physical exertion or in severe cases

These symptoms can progress gradually or appear suddenly. If you’re noticing more than one of these, especially alongside a history of heart disease or high blood pressure, it’s time to speak with a specialist.

The cardiology team at our international hospital is here to help.

Leading Causes and Risk Factors in Indonesia

Heart failure usually develops due to long-term damage or strain on the heart. In Indonesia, the most common causes and contributing factors include:

• Coronary artery disease (ischemic heart disease): Accounts for 40.2% of cases and restricts blood flow to the heart muscle
• High blood pressure (hypertension): Affects nearly 60% of patients, forcing the heart to work harder
• Diabetes mellitus: Contributes to 21.5% of cases by damaging blood vessels and weakening heart function
• Smoking: Linked to 46.4% of heart failure cases and reduces oxygen delivery to the heart
• High cholesterol (dyslipidemia): Present in over one-third of patients, it increases the risk of plaque buildup
• Additional causes: Irregular heart rhythms, cardiomyopathy, thyroid disease, and chronic kidney conditions

To learn more about cardiac evaluations and treatments, visit our cardiology services page.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Based on current health data and hospital records in Indonesia:

• Men make up 68.2% of heart failure cases
• Median age of onset is around 59 years
• Multiple risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes are common among patients

Risk increases with age and other lifestyle-related factors such as inactivity, excess weight, high-fat diets, or a family history of cardiovascular disease.

Why Early Detection Matters

When heart failure is diagnosed early, patients often have more treatment options and a better quality of life. Medication, monitoring, and small lifestyle changes can help prevent serious complications.

Late-stage detection, on the other hand, may require emergency care or more aggressive treatments. That’s why we encourage individuals - especially those over 50 or with known conditions like diabetes or hypertension - to book regular check-ups and heart screenings.

These simple steps can lead to better outcomes and a more manageable path forward.

How Our Hospital Can Help

Heart care at Bali International Hospital goes beyond basic diagnosis. Our integrated, multispecialty approach provides each patient with care designed around their specific health profile.

Here’s how we support heart health:

• Expert cardiac team: Internationally trained cardiologists and nurses
• Modern diagnostic tools: Non-invasive testing and advanced imaging
• Tailored treatment plans: Based on patient lifestyle, conditions, and risk profile
• Whole-patient care: Our specialists work together to manage related conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney issues

Your heart deserves world-class care. Learn more about our Silver Heart Screening package and take the first step toward peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main causes of heart failure?

The most common causes include:

• Coronary artery disease
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• High cholesterol

These conditions either weaken the heart or increase its workload over time.

What are the 4 signs of heart failure?

Shortness of breath, swelling in the lower limbs or abdomen, persistent fatigue, and coughing with mucus are among the key warning signs.

Is heart failure treatable?

Yes, in most cases it can be managed with medication, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring. Early intervention offers the best results.

Can you live 40 years with heart failure?

Some individuals can live for decades with heart failure if the condition is diagnosed early, treated consistently, and carefully managed through all stages.

Protect Your Heart - Start Today

Heart failure doesn’t develop overnight. It’s the result of years of wear, stress, or untreated conditions.

But with awareness, timely action, and support from a trusted care team, you can take control of your heart health. Our international hospital offers a combination of medical excellence and personalized care in a modern, welcoming setting.

Book your heart screening or consultation today and take the first step toward long-term wellness.