Despite its name, heart failure does not mean that your heart is about to give out. With medications, lifestyle changes and close supervision by your doctor, it is possible to increase your lifespan and improve your quality of life. It is also possible to prevent heart failure by following similar guidelines.
Take your medications as prescribed.
Follow a heart-healthy eating plan.
Reduce your salt (sodium) intake. Learn to read nutrition labels.
Exercise according to your doctor’s recommendations.
Weigh yourself daily. Contact your doctor if you have a sudden weight gain of three or more pounds.
Don’t smoke or drink.
Control diabetes and high blood pressure.
Work closely with your doctor. Call right away if you experience symptoms.
