my husband has had a triple bypass 3 years ago, Has congestive heart failure now heart is beating at 30 percent, 2 days ago we went to the VA hospital for out patient surgery which they cancelled because his pulse rate kept dropping to 32 then back up to 60? They sent him to the ER where they xrayed his lungs and found he had fluid in them gave him a diruretic sent him home ? with no answers as to what to expect or what is going on? Can you tell me what to expect please?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your situation and problem. Congestive heart failure is failure of pumping action of heart. And 30% beating means his heart is working only 30% to pump out blood. So efficient pumping of body fluids is hampered in your husbands case. This causes fluid retention in dependent part of body like lower limbs, abdomen and lungs. When fluid accumulate in lungs, it is known as pulmonary edema. This is not a good sign. This indicates more worsening of heart function. Along with this his pulse are also very low (32-50). Which is again indicator of failing heart. So I advise you to consult cardiologist and get done repeat 2d echo to know heart function. He needs diuretic and cardio tropic Chat Doctor.