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Heart Failure

What can I do about heart failure?
Your doctor will do his part to manage your condition, but the most important work is up to you. The steps you take at home can be more effective than any pill.
You'll have to be careful about what you eat and drink. You'll want to avoid highly salty foods (including canned soups or many frozen dinners) that can make your body retain water. You should be especially serious about cutting back on salt if you notice swelling in your feet, ankles, or belly.
Your doctor may also suggest you cut back on liquids. You may have to limit yourself to a little more than 8 cups of liquid (about 66 ounces) each day. Even if your doctor doesn't set a limit, you'll want to go easy on liquids if you notice any sudden swelling. If swelling doesn't go down after two days of cutting back on salt and liquids, call your doctor.
A healthy lifestyle can help protect your heart. If you smoke, it's time to quit. If you are overweight, consider shedding a few pounds. Depending on your condition and your medications, your doctor might recommend that you avoid alcohol completely or limit yourself to just one drink a day.
Also, regular exercise can strengthen your heart. For people with heart failure, the American Heart Association suggests gradually working up to 30 minutes of exercise a day, or whatever your doctor recommends. At the same time, you'll have to be careful not to overdo it. Your doctor can help you find an exercise routine that's right for you.
Finally, you'll have to pay close attention to your body. Weigh yourself every morning before breakfast, but after a trip to the bathroom. Call your doctor if you gain more than three pounds in a day or five pounds in a week (without overeating). You should also call your doctor if you have any sudden swelling or breathlessness.