Mild to moderate heart failure
Mild to Moderate Heart Failure: An Overview
Heart failure is a serious condition that occurs when the heart is unable to adequately pump blood throughout the body. There are several classifications of heart failure, based on the severity of symptoms. Mild to moderate heart failure is the least severe classification and is typically managed with lifestyle changes and medications.
Mild to moderate heart failure involves the heart’s inability to pump an adequate amount of blood through the body. Symptoms of mild to moderate heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs and ankles, and an irregular heartbeat.
Generally, mild to moderate heart failure can be managed with lifestyle changes, such as getting enough exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, medications are typically prescribed to help control symptoms and reverse the effects of heart failure. These may include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta blockers, and aldosterone antagonists.
It is important for people with mild to moderate heart failure to seek detailed instructions from a healthcare provider on how to manage their symptoms and stay healthy. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are also important to monitor the effects of medications and lifestyle changes.
Tips for Managing Mild to Moderate Heart Failure
- Exercise regularly throughout the week with an exercise program that fits your capabilities.
- Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Rest as advised by a healthcare provider or when feeling short of breath.
- Monitor fluid intake to prevent fluid retention.
- Take all medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
- Attend follow-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor the effects of medications and any other treatment.
- Make lifestyle changes if advised by a healthcare provider.
- Call a healthcare provider at the first sign of worsening symptoms.