How to cope with congestive heart failure is an issue for millions of people. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart is unable to pump an adequate amount of blood throughout the body. This occurs when the walls of the left ventricle become too thick and stiff, resulting in decreased efficiency in pumping blood. Over time, this can lead to an accumulation of fluids in various parts of the body, resulting in shortness of breath, fatigue, and other symptoms.
Signs of Congestive Heart Failure
Symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Breathlessness
- Coughing
- Swelling in the ankles and legs
- Chest pain
- Discomfort
- Irregular heartbeat
- Decreased urine output
- Weight gain due to fluid retention.
- In more severe cases of congestive heart failure, a person may experience confusion or disorientation as a result of reduced blood flow to the brain.
How to Cope With Congestive Heart Failure
Daily routines to help manage congestive heart failure symptoms include:
– Maintaining a healthy diet that is low in salt and fat.
– Monitoring of weight daily or at least twice per week.
– Following activity restrictions as advised by the doctor, including avoiding overexertion and performing moderate exercise such as walking for 20 minutes each day.
– Properly managing medications as prescribed by the doctor.
– Keeping a journal of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue and swelling in ankles or legs.
– Taking time to rest throughout the day and avoiding situations that can increase stress and anxiety.
– Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization and meditation.
– Regularly checking blood pressure as advised by the doctor.
– Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per day.
– Quitting smoking if applicable.
By following these routines, individuals with congestive heart failure can improve their quality of life and reduce their risk of complications. It is important to discuss any changes to daily routines with a doctor prior to making any adjustments. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments should be scheduled to monitor progress and make necessary modifications if needed. With proper management and support, people living with congestive heart failure can lead fulfilling lives.
My name is Phyllis Robinson MSN, RN. I have been a Registered Nurse for 27 years in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. I am passionate about cardiac care and heart disease. I also want this blog to be an educational tool that people can refer to for traditional and alternative treatment. I will blog on heart disorders such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and high cholesterol.
I received my Nursing degree from Baltimore Community College.
I went on to receive my Masters in Nursing from Walden University
I have worked for almost 30 years in Critical Care with a focus on heart health. I am an advocate of preventive healthcare.
