Heart Failure (or congestive heart failure) is a long-term (chronic) condition where the heart does not pump blood as well as it should.
Common symptoms of heart failure
Weight gain or loss
Swelling in feet, ankles, legs, or stomach (also called edema)
Hard to breathe
Feeling tired
Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
Fast heartbeat
How to care for someone with Heart Failure
Caring for someone with heart failure can be challenging. Learning about heart failure will make it easier to provide care. The doctor or primary care provider of the person with heart failure may make a plan to manage their symptoms. The treatment plan may include medication and lifestyle changes. Support that person by helping them follow their treatment plan.
Stay Active
Eat Healthy Foods
Follow the Treatment Plan
Healthy habits to help manage heart failure symptoms
Take weight each day before breakfast; write down on a weight log
Take medications as ordered by a doctor or primary care provider
Check each day for swelling in stomach, feet, ankles, and legs
Eat foods that are low in salt or salt-free
Have no more than 6-8 cups of fluid each day
Stay active and exercise each day
Rest when needed
Take breaks to sit when feeling short of breath or when feeling dizzy
Keep stress low
