Upper West Side Location Now Open!
Manhattan Cardiology
Are you living with Heart Failure?

The phrase “heart failure” may suggest a predetermined fate and a hopeless future to some people. While heart failure should be a cause for concern, many people are able to live highly functioning, successful lives for many years following their diagnosis thanks to contemporary heart failure therapy. Chronic heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump blood as effectively as it should. Many symptoms, including exhaustion, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and ankles, can result from it. 

Chronic disorders that weaken or harm the heart muscles, such as heart attacks, defective heart valves, an irregular heart rhythm, and hereditary illnesses, are common causes of heart failure. Heart failure risk factors include age, having a family history of heart failure, having high blood pressure, or high cholesterol, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and other conditions (poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, and drug or heavy alcohol use).

To manage your heart failure, it’s crucial to collaborate closely with your cardiologist. This can entail adhering to a drug schedule, keeping an eye on your symptoms, and changing your current lifestyle. Also, to monitor your condition and modify your treatment plan as needed, your doctor may advise routine examinations and testing.

Adopting a heart-healthy diet is one of the main modifications in lifestyle that are advised for those with heart failure. This can entail consuming less sodium, less saturated and trans fats, and more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Working with a qualified dietitian to develop a meal plan that is customized to your unique requirements and preferences is also beneficial.

Exercise may seem counterproductive if you are suffering symptoms like shortness of breath, but regular exercise can actually improve heart health and lessen symptoms over time. It’s crucial to collaborate with your medical team to create a safe and effective exercise program for your condition.

Stress management is a crucial component of living with heart failure. Your blood pressure and heart rate may rise as a result of stress, which may place more strain on your heart. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in relaxing and enjoyable hobbies are some methods for controlling stress.

In addition to these lifestyle changes, there are several other things that you can do to manage your heart failure and improve your quality of life. Some of these may include:

• Quitting smoking

• Getting enough sleep

• Managing other health conditions

• Avoiding alcohol

Although coping with heart failure might be difficult, it’s vital to know that there are strategies to control the condition and lead a productive life.