160140 - Cardiology Update 3 (in a series of 6) - Heart Failure, Part A: The dyspnoea patient

This update has been developed with a GP focus in order to expand the understanding of diagnostic and management strategies for patients presenting with dyspnoea, in the context of heart failure. A specialist cardiologist will review and examine evidence, patient case studies and the available diagnostic and the treatment options available to General Practitioners

Recent updates to Australian Clinical Guidelines for the prevention, detection and management of Heart Failure requires that GPs are provided with a detailed review on the identification, investigation and management of heart failure. 

Heart failure is present in 1–2% of the Australian population. It is predominantly a disease of the elderly, present in up to 10% of those aged over 80, and this prevalence is rising. The type of heart failure determines its treatment. Diagnosis and management of most patients with heart failure occurs at an outpatient level, with the GP playing a central role in initial diagnosis, counselling, regular assessment of fluid status, titration and monitoring of medications as well as end-of-life care.