Congestive Heart Failure
(CHF)
Congestive Heart Failure is a condition where the heart is not able to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Because blood cannot flow freely, it backs up or "pools" in the lungs, veins, tissues of the legs and other parts of the body. The heart muscle may be too weak or too stiff due to medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attack, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, diabetes, abnormal heart rhythms to name a few. These events can lead to the following symptoms:
- Shortness of breath during physical activity or at rest
- Waking up at night due to shortness of breath
- Sleeping with 2 or more pillows at night
- Frequent coughing
- Bloating
- Swollen feet, legs, ankles
- Weight gain
- Fatigue, weakness
- Swollen neck veins
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Dizziness
- Rapid heart rate
You should report any of these above symptoms to your health care provider to intervene early and prevent Emergency room visits and hospitalization.
How to manage Congestive Heart Failure
- Daily Weights: Weigh yourself each morning after urinating and before breakfast.
- Exercise: Exercise regularly according to the plan your doctor recommends.
- Diet: Follow your doctor's diet recommendations. Avoid salt.
- Alcohol: Limit the amount of alcohol you drink (no more than one drink daily for women and no more than two drinks daily for men)
- Smoking: Develop a plan to quit smoking and stick to it.
- Medications: Take medication as prescribed by your doctor.
With close monitoring by you and your physician, heart failure can be successfully managed. Contact your physician today and schedule regular appointment. Case management services are also available (Carolina Access Patients) to assist you in the day to day management of heart failure. |
Need transportation services to your appointment? Contact the Department of Social Services to qualify @ 704 487-0669 |
