SYMPTOMS OF HEART FAILURE
Common symptoms of heart failure include the
following:
Shortness of breath during mild or usual daily
activities.
Having trouble breathing when lying down.
Weight gain with mild to moderate swelling in the
legs, ankles, or lower back from fluid buildup in
the body.
General tiredness and weakness.
HOW IS HEART FAILURE DIAGNOSED
There is not a specific test to determine if you
have heart failure. A clinical diagnosis of heart
failure is usually made when symptoms appear. Your
doctor will determine if you have heart failure by
performing a detailed medical history, a physical
exam, and several tests such as EKG, chest x-ray and
other available tests.
TREATMENT AND PREVENTION
The quality of life and life expectancy of persons
with heart failure can be improved with early
diagnosis and treatment.
The major underlying causes of heart failure are
coronary artery disease (including angina, and heart
attack), high blood pressure and diabetes. Early
medical
treatment for any
underlying condition you have greatly reduces
your risk.
Eat a heart healthy diet low in salt, saturated
fat, and cholesterol.
Quit smoking if you smoke.
Lose weight if you are overweight.
Participate in an exercise program thats right for you.
Follow a treatment plan. Your doctor can recommend a
plan for you. Persons living with heart failure can
improve their outcomes by the following:
Take prescribed medications as recommended each
day.
Reduce dietary intake of salt (sodium).
Get daily physical activity as recommended by your
doctor.
Be aware of and tell your physician about your
heart failure symptoms.
Keep a daily weight log and notify your physician
if weight changes over a short period of time.
References: National Heart, Lung and Blood institute
(www.nhlbi.gov),
Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov)
What Is CHF?
- CHF Facts -
CHF Symptoms |
