Ask Doctor K: Heart failure slowed with these tips

DEAR DOCTOR K: I’ve been diagnosed with heart failure. Thankfully, it is still in the early stages. What can I do to keep it from getting worse?

DEAR READER: The function of the blood is to carry nutrition to every cell in the body and to carry away waste from the cell. The function of the heart is to keep pumping blood so it reaches every cell in the body.

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump efficiently enough to meet the body’s need. As a result, tissues and organs don’t get enough nutrition, and fluid builds up in the lungs and tissues.

The first symptom of heart failure often is fatigue. As the condition progresses, a person may also experience rapid heartbeat, worsening shortness of breath (caused by fluid buildup in the lungs) and fluid buildup in the legs and abdomen.

Fortunately, you can help slow the progress of heart failure, avoid hospitalizations and improve your quality of life:

• TAKE YOUR MEDICINES. Most people with heart failure need a three-drug regimen, including diuretics (pills to make you pass water).

• STEP ON A SCALE REGULARLY. Extra fluid in your body means extra weight. If, because of heart failure, your body is retaining fluid, you can gain several pounds a day without adding any fat.

• CHANGE YOUR DIET. Limit your sodium intake to two grams a day. Also limit your intake of fluids to about two quarts per day.

• LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. Call your doctor right away if you notice any new or strange symptoms. Rapid heartbeat, dizzy spells, fainting, worsening shortness of breath or sudden changes in weight all may be signs that your heart failure is getting worse.

• PAY ATTENTION TO OTHER MEDICAL CONDITIONS. Make sure your blood pressure is under control, for example.

• EXERCISE REGULARLY. For people with heart failure, regular aerobic exercise should be a high priority.

• LOSE WEIGHT IF YOU ARE OVERWEIGHT. Cutting out 500 calories a day can lead to slow, steady weight loss.