Skip to main content

    Heart Failure

    Manageable. Treatable. Live well.

    What heart failure is

    • Heart pumps less efficiently.
    • NOT the same as heart attack.
    • Fluid backs up in lungs + body.
    • 6.5M Americans have it.
    • Most common 65+.
    • Manageable with medication + lifestyle.

    Daily symptoms

    • Shortness of breath (especially lying down).
    • Swelling in legs, ankles, feet.
    • Fatigue.
    • Rapid weight gain (fluid).
    • Coughing.
    • Reduced exercise tolerance.
    • Track DAILY weight (huge clue).

    Daily management

    • Weigh every morning. Same time. Same scale.
    • Gain 3+ lbs in 2-3 days = call doctor.
    • Limit salt under 2,000mg/day (often 1,500).
    • Limit fluid (per doctor).
    • Take all meds as prescribed.
    • Watch for swelling.
    • Walk daily as tolerated.

    Critical medications

    • ACE/ARBs — lisinopril, losartan.
    • Beta blockers — carvedilol, metoprolol.
    • Diuretics — furosemide. Removes fluid.
    • Spironolactone — adds protection.
    • SGLT2 — newer, dapagliflozin (Farxiga).
    • Entresto — newer combo med.
    • Don't stop without doctor.

    Get to ER if

    • Severe shortness of breath (can't lie down).
    • Sudden swelling.
    • Chest pain.
    • Pink frothy cough.
    • Confusion.
    • Fast heart rate at rest.
    • Don't wait.

    Get cardiologist + heart failure specialist

    Many patients only see primary care. Heart failure clinic = specialized + better outcomes. Reduces hospitalizations 50%. Medicare covers. Heart Failure Society of America — find specialist. Living well with heart failure possible.