Understanding Congestive Heart Failure in Greeco-Arab Medicine

Abstract

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a prevalent and life-threatening condition, affecting over 64 million individuals globally, and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. It often results from the myocardial injury, most commonly due to hypertension and ischemic heart disease. Despite the advancements in treatment, the prognosis for CHF remains poor, underscoring the critical need for early detection and management of the risk factors. In the Unani system of medicine, CHF is described under the term Imtilā’ bi Hasbil Aw’iya (congestion of the vessels). Renowned Unani physicians like Ibn Sīna and Ibn Rushd have provided descriptions of CHF symptoms that closely align with modern clinical understanding, including the stages of heart failure as defined by the American Heart Association. Early intervention—particularly during the early stages of CHF—is essential to prevent progression to more debilitating stages. Unani medicine places a significant emphasis on prevention, offering valuable insights for managing the early stages of CHF. Understanding the Unani perspective on CHF could inform and enhance modern preventative strategies.