Heart Failure Self-Care: A Guide for Patients

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) is a chronic condition in which the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. Proper self-care is essential to improve quality of life, reduce hospital visits, and slow disease progression.

Key Aspects of Self-Care

1. Medication Adherence

• Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed.
• Do not stop or change dosage without consulting your doctor.
• Common HF medications include beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and aldosterone antagonists.

2. Monitoring Symptoms

• Keep track of daily weight; report sudden weight gain (>2-3 lbs in a day or >5 lbs in a week) to your doctor.
• Note signs of fluid retention: swelling in legs, ankles, or abdomen.
• Pay attention to increasing shortness of breath or fatigue.

3. Dietary Management

• Limit sodium intake (<2,000 mg per day) to reduce fluid buildup.
• Avoid processed foods, fast foods, and salty snacks.
• Monitor fluid intake if your doctor recommends restrictions.

4. Physical Activity

• Engage in regular, moderate exercise as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid overexertion and recognize your body's limits.
• Cardiac rehabilitation programs may be beneficial.

5. Managing Comorbid Conditions

• Control high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease.
• Follow up regularly with your healthcare provider.

6. Avoiding Risk Factors

• Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Limit alcohol intake and avoid illicit drugs.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques and social support.

7. Recognizing When to Seek Help

• Call your doctor if you experience:
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Worsening swelling or shortness of breath
  • Increased fatigue or weakness
  • Dizziness or confusion
• Seek emergency care if you have severe chest pain or difficulty breathing.

Conclusion

Heart failure requires lifelong management, but with proper self-care, patients can lead fulfilling lives. Always communicate with your healthcare provider and follow recommended lifestyle modifications.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Heart Failure Management

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001063
2. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-failure
4. https://professional.heart.org/en/science-news/-/media/832EA0F4E73948848612F228F7FA2D35.ashx
5. https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/get-with-the-guidelines/get-with-the-guidelines-heart-failure

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute and Chronic Heart Failure

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Acute-and-Chronic-Heart-Failure
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34447992/
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Focused-Update-on-Heart-Failure-Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/36/3599/6358045
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27206819/