PREVENTION

Keep your blood pressure low It is important to keep your blood pressure controlled so that your heart can pump more effectively without extra stress.

Monitor your own symptoms Check for changes in your fluid status by weighing yourself daily and checking for swelling. Call your doctor if you have unexplained weight gain (1kg in one day or 2.5kg in one week) or if you have increased swelling.

Maintain fluid balance Your doctor may ask you to keep a record of the amount of fluids you drink or eat and how often you go to the bathroom. Remember, the more fluid you carry in your blood vessels, the harder your heart must work to pump excess fluid through your body. Limiting your fluid intake to less than 2 litres per day will help decrease the workload of your heart and prevent symptoms from recurring.

Limit how much salt (sodium) you eat If you follow a low-sodium diet, you should have less fluid retention, less swelling and breathe easier.

Monitor your weight and lose weight if needed Learn what your “dry” weight is. Dry weight is your weight without extra water (fluid). Your goal is to keep your weight within 1.8kg of your dry weight. Record your weight in a diary or calendar. If you gain 1.5kg in one day or 2.2kg in one week, call your doctor. Your doctor may want to adjust your medications.

Take your medications as prescribed Medications are used to improve your heart’s ability to pump blood, decrease stress on your heart, decrease the progression of heart failure and prevent fluid retention. Many heart failure drugs are used to decrease the release of harmful hormones. These drugs will cause your blood vessels to dilate or relax (thereby lowering your blood pressure).

Schedule regular doctor’s appointments Keep good records and bring them with you to each doctor visit.