Cognitive Impairment in Heart Failure: Unraveling the Pathophysiological Mechanisms, Diagnostics and Therapeutic Strategies

The article analyzes the link between heart failure (HF) and cognitive impairment (CI), emphasizing that about one-third of patients with HF experience some degree of cognitive decline. The main mechanism behind the development of CI is reduced cerebral blood flow, although inflammatory, neurohumoral, metabolic, and structural changes in the brain are also important. CI worsens treatment adherence in HF patients and increases the risk of hospitalization and mortality. Diagnostic tools include neuropsychological tests, imaging studies and biomarkers. Treatment should be comprehensive – incorporating both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. The article highlights that successful care for these patients requires collaboration between cardiologists and neurologists to improve cognitive function and overall health.