Heart failure is a condition caused by weakening of the heart and ineffective pumping of blood to the body. The severity of the disease can vary and lead to symptoms like congestion, shortness of breath, and swelling (edema), depending on which side (left or right heart) is affected. Left heart failure causes blood to back up in the lungs and is associated with congestion and shortness of breath. Right heart failure results in generalized body swelling or edema and neck vein distention. Heart failure can be classified on if there is impairment of the heart to contract (systolic dysfunction) or failure to fill properly (diastolic dysfunction). Knowing your ejection fraction is important because it provides doctors with information on how well the heart is functioning and the degree of heart failure. Overall, heart failure is a complex disease that requires a multifaceted approach in both diagnosis and treatment to improve survival and prevent sudden cardiac arrest.