How to Prevent Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a term used to describe a condition that occurs when your heart provides the rest of your body with an insufficient supply of nutrient-rich, oxygenated blood. This results in blood backing up into your lungs, liver and legs, due to your heart weakening. By taking the appropriate steps, you can prevent congestive heart failure.
- Look for early warning signs, so if you do have the condition, you and your physician or cardiologist can find the best treatment option for you. Symptoms include edema in your legs and ankles, swelling in your abdomen, fatigue, abdominal pain and more frequent urination.
- Stop smoking as soon as possible, since it has a negative effect on heart function and increases the risk of congestive heart failure.
- Drink the recommended amount of water, at least eight glasses each day. Not drinking enough water leads to your blood thickening, which adds extra strain on your heart.
- Control your blood pressure by consuming less sodium, taking your antihypertensive and/or diuretics as directed, controlling your stress and managing your weight.
- Lose weight if you are obese or overweight. Obesity causes added strain to your heart that increases your chances of developing CHF.
- Keep your cholesterol under control. Alter your current eating habits to reduce fatty foods like butter. Decrease your sodium intake, as well. Take any statins or other cholesterol lowering medications you are on, as prescribed.
- Regulate your blood glucose levels, especially if you are a diabetic. Excessive levels of sugar in your blood not only attribute to obesity, but also increase your risk of heart related conditions.
- Exercise regularly to strengthen your heart muscle and increase the flow of oxygenated blood throughout your body.