Abstract
Heart failure is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in old age. Its diagnosis is taken from current recommendations European Society of Cardiology and is based on the analysis of the medical history, physical examination, 12-lead ECG analysis, echocardiography and determination of natriuretic peptides.
Other examinations include other laboratory and imaging methods. Especially in older age, it is necessary to actively search for the causes of decompensation, which very often include infections.
Among other conditions, it is recommended to investigate possible iron deficiency. Invasive examinations are indicated very cautiously in view of the higher risk of invasive examinations in this age category.
Increased attention must be paid to the diagnosis of heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction.