Managing Life with Heart Failure

Living with a chronic condition such as heart failure can be challenging, but many people find ways to manage their symptoms and still lead fulfilling lives. With the right care and lifestyle changes, those with heart failure can enjoy things they love for years to come. 

Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart muscle can't pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs for blood and oxygen. Basically, the heart can’t keep up with its workload which can make you feel tired or short of breath. It doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working; it just needs a little extra care to keep you healthy.

According to the American Heart Association, 6.7 million Americans are currently living with heart failure. Getting good medical care and following your treatment plan will help you have the best quality of life. 

• Tips for managing heart failure

• Take your medications: Your provider will give you medications to help your heart work better. Always take them as prescribed, and don’t skip any doses.

• Eat heart-healthy foods:  A good diet is important to your health. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid salty foods. Too much salt can make your body retain water, which makes heart failure worse. Eat lean meats like chicken and fish.

• Stay active: Exercise can help strengthen your heart and improve your energy. Even a short daily walk can make a big difference.

• Watch for warning signs: Call your doctor if you notice weight gain, more than two-three pounds in a day, more shortness of breath than usual, swelling in your legs, feet, or belly, or feeling very tired or dizzy.

• Work with your health care team: Your doctor, nurse, or other health care providers are your partners in managing heart failure. Keep all appointments and don’t hesitate to ask questions. 

Your heart is your body’s most important muscle, and it needs exercise. Go for a short walk with a family member or do some light stretches to get the blood moving. As you start to feel better and become more active, you’ll be able to handle life outside your home. Make a gradual return to your normal daily activities.

You may feel alone, angry, scared, or different from the person you were before you learned you have heart failure—these feelings are common. They may go away as you learn to understand and manage your condition. The important thing to remember is that your emotions can affect managing your heart failure symptoms. It’s important to understand your feelings, recognize problems, and ask for help.

Living with heart failure means you have to make a lot of decisions every day to protect your heart and boost your energy, from watching your weight to limiting fluids and you will need support from those around you. Reach out to family and friends, find a support group in your community, or talk to a patient advocate. 

As you manage your symptoms and begin to feel better, be sure to stay engaged and connected with family and friends. You might start by accepting short visits. When you feel up to it, you can add more daily social activity.

Living with heart failure can be hard and with the right steps, it doesn’t have to control your life. By following your doctor’s advice, making healthy choices, taking care of yourself, and staying positive, you can manage your symptoms and keep doing the things you enjoy. Small changes can make a big difference, and with the right support, you can enjoy a full and happy life. 

Managing heart failure is important to your health and BJC HealthCare is here to help. If you have questions, call your medical provider or if you need to find a physician, call 314-273-2315 to schedule an appointment with one of our primary care providers or heart specialists.