Congestive heart failure simply means that your heart has lost its ability to pump blood as

well as it should. Most people with congestive heart failure experience the following symptoms to varying degrees:

Shortness of breath: Usually due to fluid build-up in the lungs, this can occur during rest or exercise and in some cases may interfere with sleep.

Edema: Another sign of fluid build-up in the body, edema (swelling) is usually first seen in the feet, ankles, and legs.

Fatigue: As the pumping capacity of the heart decreases, body tissues and organs receive

less oxygen and nutrients, leading to fatigue.

Although congestive heart failure is a serious condition, your symptoms and overall health can he greatly improved with proper medical care and active participation in a well-managed treatment plan.

reduce symptoms by strengthening the heart muscle and avoiding the build-up of fluid;

help avoid any further damage to the heart muscle by controlling conditions, such as

high blood pressure, diabetes etc, that can affect the heart.

A COMPLETE HEART FAILURE TREATMENT PROGRAM USUALLY TAKES INTO ACCOUNT:

MEDICATION: Your doctor will likely prescribe a number of medications, each of which has an important role to play in managing your symptoms and improving the function of your heart. It is important that you take them all as prescribed.

EXERCISE: Exercise helps strengthen the heart and improve circulation and the body's ability to use oxygen.

DIET: Avoiding salt and limiting your intake of fluids will help control symptoms, while a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet will help maintain the health of your heart.

SMOKING: Smoking reduces the supply of oxygen and is damaging to the heart and blood vessels. You should quit immediately.

ALCOHOL: Drinking alcohol may make your congestive heart failure worse. Therefore, you should limit your alcohol intake to 2 drinks per day or give it up completely.

REGULAR Doctor VISITS: Your doctor will need to monitor your progress, adjust your medications, and assist you in managing your diet, exercise and other health needs. It is important to immediately consult your doctor or go to a hospital emergency room if you are experiencing sudden or significant shortness of breath, swollen extremities, chest pain, dizziness, confusion, or fatigue

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