Heart Failure Treatment
Early-Stage Heart Failure Treatments
Commonly Asked Questions
What about hobbies and physical activities?
What types of food should I limit or avoid?
What if I miss a dose of my medication?
1. How long will I live?
This is most likely your first question and biggest concern. Since so many factors come into play, it is also the most difficult for physicians to answer. Furthermore, a lot has to do with your compliance with medications and lifestyle changes. If you follow the physician's orders, your prognosis will likely improve and you will likely maintain a higher quality of life.
2. Will I be able to work?
Most early-stage heart failure patients are able to perform tasks that are not overly strenuous. Many patients are able to do their jobs without any limitation whatsoever. To determine this, your physician will most likely prescribe an exercise stress test to help determine your physical ability.
3. What about hobbies and physical activities?
Your physician will probably prescribe an exercise stress test. The main concern is preventing arrhythmias that could occur with an unsafe level of physical activity. Patients with ejection fractions of less than 35% may carry an increased risk of arrhythmias or congestion in the lungs. Activities such as lifting heavy objects or those that could lead to shortness of breath, light-headedness or fatigue should be avoided. Ask your physician for specific recommendations.
4. What types of food should I limit or avoid?
Eat healthy. Avoid fatty, processed and fried foods; eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Discuss sodium intake with your physician. Learn how much sodium, fat and calories are in the foods you eat, and learn to read nutrition labels. Learn about the nutritional content of foods you commonly eat. Learn which options are healthy choices to make when dining out.
5. Is it OK for me to drive?
Your physician, your family and you should discuss and determine whether you should drive. Typically, heart failure is not seen as a limiting factor in obtaining or renewing a drivers' license.
6. What if I miss a dose of my medication?
Never alter a dose without consulting your physician. If you miss a dose, notify your physician. It is a good idea to discuss in advance what you should do if you miss a dose or forget your medication while traveling or away from home. Only your physician should direct you to reduce or increase the dosage of any medication you are taking.
7. What tests can I expect?
Several tests are used to diagnose heart failure. An echocardiogram is the primary diagnostic test. It uses sound waves to produce pictures of the walls, chambers and valves of the heart to determine what the heart is capable of pumping. Other tests include chest x-rays, EKG (electrocardiogram), MRI, exercise tolerance testing and blood panels.
8. How can I join a heart failure support group?
There are many support groups available for patients and caregivers. One heart failure support group accessible to all is a forum called "The Beat Goes On," maintained by a heart failure patient at www.chfpatients.com/heartforum.htm. Your medical team can give you additional suggestions. You may also meet with a counselor who specializes in cardiac rehabilitation. Most communities have many additional resources that may be useful. Contact hospitals, eldercare facilities, community centers, churches and the YMCA/YWCA for additional options.
For additional links to care and support resources, click here.
9. How am I going to pay for medications/procedures?
Many medications and procedures for heart failure patients are covered by insurance. Some drug companies offer patient medication assistance programs in cases of financial hardship. Ask your physician about the use of less expensive, generic medications that are proven to be effective.
