Tipperary University Hospital celebrates Heart Failure Awareness Week 2025

Tipperary University Hospital celebrated Heart Failure Awareness week from May 5 to 11 this month.

Throughout the week, the Heart Failure Team in Tipperary were encouraging the public to learn more about the symptoms of heart failure, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling, and to recognize the importance of seeking early diagnosis and having regular health check-ups.

Earlier diagnosis results in earlier access to treatments and interventions, which save lives.

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Heart failure occurs when the heart does not circulate blood around the body as well as it should.

When blood cannot circulate freely, congestion occurs causing fluid retention in the lungs, legs and stomach. Heart Failure can occur for a variety of reasons, as a result of damage caused by heart attack, high blood pressure, valve disease, diseases of the heart muscle and heart rhythm disorders.

Heart failure can also occur due to other diseases, which ultimately damage the heart such as diabetes, lung diseases, excess alcohol, certain drugs, and infections.

Heart failure will affect 1 in 5 adults in our lifetime.

Despite its challenges, many individuals find ways to live active and fulfilling lives, emphasizing the
importance of early diagnosis, proper management, and a proactive approach to care.

There are over 660 patients attending the Heart Failure service in Tipperary University Hospital.

It is a nurse led service, with great support from the Clinical Led in Heart Failure, Dr. Niall Colwell.

The aim of the service is to reduce mortality and hospital readmissions rates, improve patient outcomes and enhance patient’s experience.

With the support of healthcare providers, lifestyle changes, and innovation in medical science, people with heart failure are leading productive and meaningful lives.

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