Tips for Living With Congestive Heart Failure

What is congestive heart failure?

Congestive heart failure is a chronic condition that develops and gradually progresses over time. When you have heart failure, your heart still beats and pumps blood throughout your body, but not as efficiently as it should. As a result, your heart does not fill with enough blood, or your heart muscles weaken.

Conditions that weaken or damage your heart can cause congestive heart failure. These conditions can include:

Cardiomyopathy
Coronary artery disease
Heart disease
High blood pressure

If these conditions go untreated, they slowly damage your heart. The strain on your heart can eventually cause symptoms such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath and swelling in the legs and feet.

“Living with congestive heart failure does not mean you have a poor quality of life. With a healthy diet, regular exercise, the right amount of sleep, and daily rest, you can enjoy and live your best life.”

Ailia Rizvi, DO, Catholic Health Cardiologist

What tips can help you live with congestive heart failure?

“Managing symptoms with lifestyle modifications and keeping a daily healthy routine can help to prevent congestive heart failure from worsening,” said Dr. Rizvi.

The following tips can help you live productively with congestive heart failure. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet and beginning a new exercise program.

Tip 1: Avoid excess salt

Too much salt causes your body to retain fluid and increases blood pressure. A high-sodium diet is also usually higher in fat and calories. A heart-healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein.

Tip 2: Conserve your energy

The more active you are, the harder your heart works to pump blood. Take frequent breaks to rest. Elevating your feet at rest time reduces the risk of swelling in your legs and feet. Your physician can recommend you to an occupational therapist to learn how to conserve energy while performing daily tasks.

Tip 3: Exercise regularly

Keeping your body active is an essential part of good heart health. Light physical activity, including walking or swimming, strengthens your heart muscle. Stop the activity and call your physician if you develop shortness of breath or chest pain.

Tip 4: Get the right amount of sleep

When you sleep, your heart does not work as hard to pump blood. To get better sleep, limit or avoid caffeine and alcohol, maintain a regular sleep routine and talk to your physician about any sleep-related breathing issues, including apnea or shortness of breath.

Tip 5: Take your prescribed medicine

Take your medicine as directed—do not take less or more. Discuss potential side effects with your physician and call them immediately if you are concerned you are not feeling well.

Tip 6: Check your weight daily

Rapid weight gain can indicate fluid buildup, a sign of worsening heart failure. You may also notice swelling in your legs and feet. Contact your physician if you gain two or three pounds in one day.

“Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to discuss symptoms, medication and overall quality of daily life,” said Dr. Rizvi. “Checking in regularly can reduce the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, organ damage and sudden cardiac arrest.”