Methods of correction of chronic heart failure in patients of older age groups against the background of depressive disorders

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a common disease in patients of older age groups. Often these patients experience depressive disorders that affect the course of chronic diseases and their standard of living. Purpose. To study methods for increasing the effectiveness of treatment of CHF against the background of depressive disorders in patients of older age groups. Material and methods. The study involved 100 patients aged 60–87 years with functional class II–III CHF and mild to moderate depressive disorders. Patients were divided into groups depending on the therapy received: 1st (n=25) – standard therapy for CHF; 2nd (n=25) – standard therapy for CHF + antidepressant; 3rd (n=25) – standard therapy for CHF + phototherapy; 4th (n=25) – standard therapy for CHF + placebo. The effectiveness of CHF therapy was assessed after 3 and 6 weeks during clinical examination using a 6-minute walk test, ECG, echocardiography, and a clinical condition rating scale. To diagnose depressive disorders, the Geriatric Depression Scale, HADS, Beck scale, and consultations with a psychotherapist were used. Results. After 6 weeks of therapy, patients of all groups noted a decrease in shortness of breath and chest pain, and an increase in tolerance to physical activity. At the same time, the decrease in the level of anxiety and depression was most pronounced in groups 2 and 3 – in 84 and 100% of cases, respectively.