Title: Alcohol-related Heart Failure: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Liu, a 49-year-old man, has been drinking alcohol since his teenage years due to his father's influence. Over the years, he has developed an impressive tolerance for alcohol, and he also smokes a pack of cigarettes every day.

However, recently, Liu has noticed some health problems. He struggles to climb even a two-story building, experiences decreased appetite and swelling in his legs.

Concerned about these symptoms, Liu visits the hospital with his daughter. After a thorough examination, the doctor diagnoses Liu with alcohol-related heart failure. The doctor explains that individuals with a history of heavy drinking for more than five years, along with an enlarged and weakened heart, are at risk of alcohol-related heart failure.

1. Heart Failure in China: According to Dr. Tan Jing, an associate chief physician in the Cardiology Department of Xuanwu Hospital Capital Medical University, there are nearly 10 million heart failure patients in China, with a prevalence rate of 1.3% in individuals over the age of 35.

2. Causes and Risk Factors: Heart failure can be caused by various factors, including primary myocardial damage such as dilated cardiomyopathy, as well as cardiovascular diseases like coronary artery disease, heart attack, arrhythmia, hypertension, and valvular heart disease.

Non-cardiovascular conditions such as obesity, hyperthyroidism, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes can also contribute to heart failure. Long-term alcohol abuse is another risk factor for heart failure.

3. Recognizing the Symptoms: Heart failure manifests with several signals that demand immediate attention to prevent life-threatening situations.

These symptoms include emotional distress, difficulty falling asleep, decreased physical stamina, shortness of breath, visible veins in the neck, body chill, persistent cough, and respiratory difficulties.

In the case of heart failure diagnosis, it is crucial to manage and seek appropriate treatment.

Patients should adopt a healthy lifestyle, quit alcohol and smoking, and have regular check-ups with their doctors. Adhering to prescribed treatment plans and avoiding respiratory infections, excessive exertion, unhealthy dietary habits, self-medication, and emotional stress are also necessary steps in managing heart failure effectively. With active intervention and proper care, the outcomes for heart failure patients can be significantly improved.