What is the treatment approach for diastolic heart failure?

The treatment approach for diastolic heart failure, also known as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), focuses primarily on managing the associated symptoms and underlying conditions, such as hypertension. Diuretics are often employed to alleviate fluid retention and edema, which are common in patients with diastolic dysfunction due to heart failure. By promoting diuresis, these medications help reduce the volume overload that can exacerbate heart failure symptoms.

Antihypertensive medications play a crucial role as well, especially in controlling blood pressure. Tight management of hypertension is essential in patients with diastolic heart failure because elevated blood pressure contributes to the stiffening of the heart muscle and worsening of diastolic function. By lowering blood pressure, antihypertensives can improve the heart's ability to fill properly during diastole.

The other treatment options mentioned do not directly address the management of diastolic heart failure:

• High-dose corticosteroids are not a standard treatment for heart failure; they can sometimes have adverse effects, such as fluid retention, which could worsen symptoms.

• Calcium channel blockers may be used in certain circumstances, particularly for hypertension or certain heart rhythm issues, but they are not the primary treatment for diastolic heart failure.