Being diagnosed with heart failure — also known as congestive heart failure — can feel overwhelming. The realization that your heart isn't pumping enough blood for your body's needs is both scary and confusing. However, with the right knowledge and self-care strategies, managing heart failure becomes more manageable.
Understanding Heart Failure
Heart failure comes in two main types, each with its own set of challenges:
- Systolic Heart Failure: This occurs when the heart's ability to contract and pump blood decreases. It's identified by a reduced ejection fraction (EF), which is the amount of blood pumped out of the heart's left ventricle with each contraction.
- Diastolic Heart Failure: In this type, the heart muscle becomes stiff and doesn't relax as it should between beats, impairing its ability to fill properly with blood.
Understanding which type of heart failure you have is important for managing your condition effectively. People who understand why they are taking their medications and the risks associated with their form of heart disease are more likely to participate actively in their healthcare, says Mariell Jessup, MD, chief science and medical officer of the American Heart Association who is based in Philadelphia.
Recognizing the symptoms of heart failure is also crucial. This knowledge will help you understand what you can manage at home and when you should check in with your doctor about your symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include shortness of breath, heart palpitations, chest pain, swelling (fluid retention) in your abdomen, legs, and ankles, weight gain, bloated hard stomach, dry cough, nausea, inability to lay flat to sleep, and waking up short of breath at night. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can sometimes come on slowly over time or crop up suddenly.
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It’s also beneficial to understand the cause of your heart failure, as it can affect your symptoms. Causes include sleep apnea, heart blockage due to heart attack scar tissue, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), cardiomyopathy (a disease that makes the heart less able to pump blood well), congenital heart defects, and viral infections that lead to inflammation of the heart muscle.
RELATED: Heart Attack Vs. Heart Failure: Here’s How To Tell The Difference
Taking Control Through Self-Care
Self-care plays a vital role in managing heart failure and can significantly improve your quality of life. Here are some essential strategies:
1. Educate Yourself
Understanding your condition is key to managing heart failure. Learn about the different types of heart failure, their symptoms, and treatment options. Knowing why you're taking certain medications and how they help can motivate you to stick to your treatment plan.
2. Adhere to Your Treatment Plan
Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding medications, diet, and lifestyle changes. Consistency is key in managing heart failure, and sticking to your treatment plan can help improve your symptoms and quality of life.
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3. Monitor Your Salt Intake
Reduce your salt intake to help manage fluid retention, a common issue in heart failure. Avoid processed foods and use herbs and spices to add flavor to your meals instead of salt.
4. Limit Fluid Intake
Keep track of your fluid intake and limit it to the recommended amount. This can help prevent fluid buildup in your body, which can strain your heart.
5. Keep a Log
Monitoring your blood pressure, heart rate, and weight can help you and your healthcare team track changes and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. This can also help you identify potential issues early on.
6. Stay Active
Engaging in regular physical activity can improve your heart health and overall well-being. Talk to your healthcare team about safe exercises for you, and consider joining a cardiac rehabilitation program.
7. Avoid Harmful Habits
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use can worsen heart failure. Quitting these habits can improve your heart health and overall quality of life.
8. Prioritize Sleep
Good sleep is essential for heart health. If you have trouble sleeping, discuss this with your doctor to find solutions. Establishing a bedtime routine and creating a comfortable sleep environment can help improve your sleep quality.
9. Schedule Regular Checkups
Regular visits to your cardiologist are important for monitoring your condition and making necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. These checkups can help prevent complications and improve your overall health.
10. Seek Help When Needed
If you experience any changes in your symptoms or vital signs, contact your healthcare team immediately. Early intervention can help prevent worsening of your condition and improve your quality of life.
By incorporating these self-care tips into your daily routine and working closely with your healthcare team, you can effectively manage heart failure and live a healthier life.
