Heart Failure

Heart Failure – Private Diagnosis & Treatment in London

What Is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is a long-term condition where the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs. Despite the name, heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped working—rather, it means the heart is weaker or stiffer than normal and requires support.

At London Heart Group, our experienced private cardiologists in Harley Street specialise in diagnosing and managing all forms of heart failure, helping patients live better, longer, and with fewer symptoms through personalised treatment and monitoring.

Common Symptoms of Heart Failure

Heart failure can develop gradually or come on suddenly. Key symptoms to watch for include:

  • Shortness of breath, especially during activity or when lying flat

  • Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen (fluid retention)

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Rapid weight gain due to fluid build-up

  • Persistent cough or wheezing

  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

  • Reduced ability to exercise or perform daily activities

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they worsen over time, a full cardiac assessment is recommended.

What Causes Heart Failure?

Heart failure can result from a variety of heart conditions that damage or weaken the heart muscle. Common causes include:

Identifying and treating the underlying cause is key to managing heart failure effectively.

Types of Heart Failure

At London Heart Group, we assess and treat all types of heart failure, including:

  • Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) – where the heart's pumping function is weakened

  • Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) – where the heart pumps normally but is too stiff to fill properly

  • Acute heart failure – sudden or severe worsening of symptoms requiring urgent care

  • Chronic heart failure – ongoing condition requiring long-term management

How Is Heart Failure Diagnosed?

At our Harley Street clinic, we provide rapid access to advanced diagnostic testing to confirm heart failure and identify its cause. Tests may include:

  • Echocardiogram – to assess heart structure and pumping ability

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) – to check heart rhythm and electrical activity

  • Blood tests – including BNP/NT-proBNP to assess heart strain

  • Cardiac MRI – for detailed imaging of the heart muscle

  • CT coronary angiography – to evaluate the coronary arteries

  • Stress testing – to assess exercise tolerance and heart function

You’ll receive a clear diagnosis, risk profile, and personalised treatment plan from our expert cardiologists.

How Is Heart Failure Treated?

While heart failure cannot always be cured, it can be effectively managed with the right combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and monitoring. Treatment goals include relieving symptoms, preventing hospital admissions, and improving quality of life.

Your treatment plan may include:

  • Medications – such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARNI, or diuretics to support heart function and reduce fluid

  • Lifestyle support – including salt reduction, weight monitoring, and supervised exercise

  • Implantable devices – such as pacemakers, ICDs, or CRT therapy, if indicated

  • Advanced therapies – including cardiac resynchronisation or referral for transplant in severe cases

Our multidisciplinary team will work closely with you to ensure your treatment is optimised, safe, and tailored to your lifestyle.

Why Choose London Heart Group?

  • Expert heart failure specialists based in Harley Street, and across Central London

  • Same-day diagnostics, including echo and BNP testing

  • Personalised treatment plans with ongoing monitoring

  • Access to leading cardiac imaging and advanced therapies

  • Compassionate, patient-centred care in a discreet private setting

Book a Private Consultation for Heart Failure in London

If you are living with heart failure or experiencing unexplained breathlessness or fatigue, early assessment can make all the difference. Our consultants at London Heart Group are here to help you take control of your heart health.

Call today or book online to arrange a private heart failure consultation at our Harley Street clinic in Central London.