ABSTRACT
Introduction Since heart failure (HF) is a condition with high morbidity and mortality, and one for which treatments are available which can reduce mortality and improve quality of life, early recognition is important. It is important that general practitioners, physicians, and emergency department staff are familiar with the clinical features of HF to facilitate such early recognition, in order to allow early introduction of appropriate therapy. However, it is also important to be aware that the symptoms and signs of HF are nonspecific, and to have a low threshold for further investigation where there is any possibility of a diagnosis of HF. This chapter sets out the common clinical features and modes of presentation associated with HF, and discusses complications and prognosis of HF.
