What is heart failure?
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump well enough to maintain adequate circulation. A healthy heart pumps blood to feed the body with fresh oxygen and nutrients; as the blood circulates it also removes waste from the body. In heart failure, the heart is weak and cannot pump effectively, therefore, the body does not get enough oxygen and nutrients. Waste materials and fluids build up in the body.
What causes Heart Failure?
Heart failure may be caused by:
- high blood pressure
- a heart attack that has injured the heart muscle
- coronary artery disease
- heart valve disease
- heart muscle disorders (cardiomyopathy)
- infections of the heart
- alcohol abuse
- various other causes
What are the signs and symptoms of Heart Failure?
- Tiredness, weakness, not being able to walk the usual distance without becoming short of breath
- Swelling of the legs, ankles, feet, and sometimes in the abdomen (swelling is also called edema)
- Weight gain of 2 or 3 pounds in a day or so or weight gain of 3 to 5 pounds in less than a week
- Frequent dry cough, especially when lying flat in bed
- Feeling out of breath during normal daily activities
- Needing more pillows to sleep comfortably
- Waking up at night feeling short of breath
How is Heart Failure treated?
Heart failure can often be controlled with simple lifestyle changes and by taking responsibility for your health.
1. Take your medicines as directed -Medications are used to help reduce the workload of the heart and increase its pumping ability. The most commonly prescribed medicines are:
Ace Inhibitors - make it easier to pump blood
Betablockers - lower blood pressure and heart rate, decrease the workload on the heart
Digoxin - strengthens the heart's contractions
Diuretics - remove excess water from the body
If you are having side effects from your medicines, call your doctor. Do not stop taking them on your own. Carry a list of your medicines and keep them refilled to avoid running out.
2. Weigh yourself every morning - after voiding, wearing the same amount of clothes and using the same scale; keep a record of your weight and if you notice a weight gain of 2 to 3 pounds in a day or so or weight gain of 3 to 5 pounds in less than a week call your doctor immediately!
3. Avoid salt - salt acts like a sponge in the bloodstream and can cause fluid buildup and swelling; this causes the heart to work harder and makes your condition worse. Therefore, do not use table salt and follow the food suggestions that the dietitian has given you.
4. Exercise and stay active - staying active will help your blood to circulate better, you will also feel better. You do not need fancy equipment to exercise. Exercise can be as simple as repetitive arm and leg lifts while sitting in a chair or just plain walking. Gradually increase the duration and frequency of the exercise. If you develop chest pain or shortness of breath - stop immediately and rest. If the pain is still present after a few minutes, call your doctor or 911 if necessary. Your doctor can tell you what activities are best for you.
5. Follow-up with your doctor - keep your appointments and call your doctor if you develop any "signs or symptoms". Make sure that you understand your treatment plan; if you have any questions ask your doctor! Your health is your responsibility!
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