Congestive heart failure can affect many organs of the body. For example, the weakened of heart muscle may not be able to supply enough blood to the kidneys, which then began to lose its normal ability to islets of salt (sodium) and water. Reduced kidney function can cause the body to hold more fluid. The lungs may be solid with fluid (pulmonary edema) and someone’s ability to exercise is reduced. Fluid may also accumulate in the liver, thus disturbing its ability to eliminate toxins from the body and produce essential proteins. The intestines may become less efficient in absorbing nutrients and drugs. In the long time period and if it’s untreated, worsening congestive heart failure will affect nearly every organ in the body.
