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Heart failure can make you feel exhausted. You may find you struggle to do even simple things, such as walking up stairs or vacuuming.

When you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood around your body as well as it should. To protect itself, your body sends the blood it does get to the most important parts, such as your brain.

This means your muscles don't get the food and oxygen they need, so they become weaker. They may even get smaller.

To learn more, see What is heart failure?

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.