What should you know about Heart Failure to prevent recurrent admissions to the hospital?
Here are some tips for heart failure patients to help prevent recurrent hospitalizations:
- Take your medications as prescribed: It is important to take your medications exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. This includes any diuretics, which help to remove excess fluid from the body, and other medications that may have been prescribed to treat your heart failure.
- Follow a heart-healthy diet: A diet that is low in salt, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars can help to manage heart failure. It is also important to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and to get enough protein.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help to improve your heart function and reduce the risk of recurrent hospitalizations. Talk to your healthcare provider about an appropriate exercise plan for you.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart failure exacerbations. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in your legs. If you notice a change in your symptoms, or if they become more severe, contact your healthcare provider right away.
- Get vaccinated: Influenza and pneumonia are common infections that can lead to hospitalization for heart failure patients. It is important to get vaccinated against these infections to help prevent them.
- Avoid triggers: Certain things, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and air pollution, can worsen heart failure symptoms. It is important to avoid these triggers to help prevent recurrent hospitalizations.
By following these tips, heart failure patients can help to manage their condition and reduce the risk of recurrent hospitalizations.
