Controlling Heart Failure

Schedule and keep regular appointments with your doctor.  Your doctor is best able to help you
deal with your situation.  Other diseases (co-morbidities) may play a role in progression. It is
important for you to tell your doctor if you are being seen by other physicians for other health
reasons. To manage the condition and have a full, active life, you need to follow the
recommendations of your doctor.  Learn to talk openly and honestly to your doctor about
symptoms or changes in your condition so he or she can help you.

Your initial visits to a cardiologist will help determine if you have heart failure. Diagnosis of heart failure often involves a series of tests including a chest x-ray, echocardiogram, treadmill stress test, and electrocardiogram. It is a good idea to bring your medical records and your medications when you visit the cardiologist.  

Once you are diagnosed with heart failure, your doctor will be able to determine the best course of treatment for you. You can help your doctor to best treat you by actively participating in your care.
 

• Keep a list of your current medications
• Write down your questions and take them with you to your appointments
• Adopt a schedule for routine preventive health care.
• Become familiar with your medical history and test results
• Monitor your weight and symptoms daily.  Keep a record and bring it to your appointments
• Keep follow-up appointments
• Follow the instructions your doctor gives you

Sources:  Mayo Clinic
Heart Failure Society of America
National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute
and DoD/VA Clinical Practice Guidelines