Heart Failure affects more than 5 million people in the United States. Although it is unknown exactly how many have heart problems, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) reports that about 670,000 Americans are diagnosed with heart failure each year. It is a condition where the heart does not properly pump blood and oxygen through the body to other organs. This can result in hypertension, heart disease and stroke. Although there is no cure for the condition, when left undiagnosed and untreated, it leads to an early death. One-fifth of all patients diagnosed with this condition die within the year.
Symptoms
Those with symptoms of heart disease should seek the care of a medical professional. According to the American Heart Association, some of the signs include frequent weakness and fatigue, gaining weight, and swelling of the ankles and feet. People that wheeze often, have shortness of breath and feel as if their heart is racing with little exertion may be showing symptoms as well. Heart failure also affects the digestive system, causing an upset stomach or constant feeling of being full. Excessive sodium in the body may result in confusion or temporary memory lapses.
Treatments
While there is no cure, heart failure can be managed with lifestyle changes, surgical procedures and medicine. Patients should limit the consumption of alcohol, caffeine, sodium and cholesterol. Smokers should make a concerted effort to quit. Regular exercise, a healthy diet and reduction in stress are keys to successful treatments. Those taking medication to control the symptoms should communicate with their doctor or home healthcare professional regularly about success. Certain food and drink should be avoided when taking prescription medication for heart failure. Surgery is seldom used as a treatment, but can reduce blocked arteries and may be used as a last resort.
Living With Heart Failure
Some homecare agencies offer special educational programs for those with heart failure. There are typically three stages in helping people cope through at home care, rather than spending unnecessary time in the hospital. In the first stage, patients are given basic information on what it is and how to take care of themselves. The use of medication is explained. The next step concentrates on further education for living with the condition. Patients learns the different side effects and how to minimize them. Most people do not want to surrender their independence, even when they have a chronic ailment. The third stage of some heart failure programs focuses more on how to communicate effectively with the patient's doctor. Family members and friends also learn what to look for and how to monitor the patient's condition when they come home from the hospital.
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