Cardiovascular condition
Life expectancy with heart failure
Heart failure means the heart cannot pump blood as effectively as it should. It is a serious condition but one where treatment has advanced significantly.
What the research suggests
Heart failure has historically been associated with a guarded outlook, with older datasets reporting limited median survival after diagnosis, particularly in older patients. Outcomes vary greatly by the type of heart failure, its cause, and response to treatment, and modern therapies have improved survival for many.
What changes the outlook
Adherence to medication, managing fluid and salt, treating the underlying cause, and device therapy where appropriate all influence outlook. Early specialist input matters.
What helps
- Taking heart failure medication as prescribed
- Monitoring weight and fluid
- Reducing salt intake
- Staying active as advised
- Regular specialist review
Estimate your own range
Answer around a dozen short questions and get a five-year age range based on your profile. It takes about two minutes.
Start the estimatorCommon questions
Does heart failure reduce life expectancy?
Heart failure has historically been associated with a guarded outlook, with older datasets reporting limited median survival after diagnosis, particularly in older patients. Outcomes vary greatly by the type of heart failure, its cause, and response to treatment, and modern therapies have improved survival for many.
What improves the outlook with heart failure?
Adherence to medication, managing fluid and salt, treating the underlying cause, and device therapy where appropriate all influence outlook. Early specialist input matters.
Can I get a personal estimate?
This tool gives a statistical estimate as a five-year range based on your overall profile, including heart failure alongside your other answers. It is not a prediction. For personal medical guidance, speak to a GP or specialist.