Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive Heart Failure: What You Need to Know

What is Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?-Occurs when the heart becomes weaker and cannot effectively pump blood throughout the body

When should you seek medical attention? (Symptoms)-Shortness of breath-Easily tired-Swelling of legs, feet, or ankles-Coughing-Sudden weight gain

Who is at Risk to Get CHF?-People with a family history of CHF-People with diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease-People with poor diet, high salt intake-People who are overweight-Smokers

Useful Internet ResourcesAmerican Heart AssociationHeart Failure Society of America

ReferencesHeart Failure Society of America(2015)American Heart Association (2015)

Managing CHF/Prevention-Avoid excess salt in diet-Avoid too much fluid intake-Take medications as precribed-Quit smoking-Make exercise part of lifestyle-Weight yourself daily and report gain to health care professional