Abstract

In the USA, heart failure affects about 1% of people in their 50s, rising to 10% of those in their 80s,¹ and the figure is probably higher in the UK. The symptoms are distressing, usually relentless, and associated with mortality rates four to eight times greater than those in the general population of the same age.¹ This article reviews the treatment of uncomplicated heart failure, concentrating on its management in general practice.