IMPACT OF LIFESTYLE MODIFICATIONS ALONG WITH PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF HEART FAILURE: A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Magar Disha Madhav*, Dr. Kelgaonkar Prajakta N., Kharat Shreya, Abdare Manjusha, Bhadange Vaishnavi

Heart failure (HF) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While pharmacological therapy is foundational, lifestyle modifications are increasingly recognised for their complementary role. This narrative review explores the synergistic effects of lifestyle interventions, combined with pharmacological treatment, in HF management. A literature search (2000-2025) was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar, to identify studies on integrative approaches to HF care. Lifestyle changes, such as dietary modification, exercise, weight management, smoking and alcohol cessation, and psychosocial support, enhance the efficacy of standard therapies, improve quality of life, and reduce hospitalisations. Integration with medications, like reninangiotensin- aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors, beta-blockers, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, shows improved neurohormonal balance, reduced inflammation, better endothelial function, and delayed cardiac remodelling. However, socioeconomic and cultural barriers challenge real-world implementation. Combining lifestyle interventions with pharmacotherapy provides a holistic, patient-centred strategy for HF management. Future efforts should focus on personalised care, multidisciplinary teams, and policy support, to improve adherence and outcomes.