Heart failure affects nearly 7 million adults in the U.S. It sounds scary, but it doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working. Instead, it means your heart muscle isn’t pumping as well as it should.
That can make everyday tasks—like walking, climbing stairs or carrying groceries—feel harder than usual because your body isn’t getting as much blood and oxygen as it needs.
Who’s at risk of heart failure?
“Heart failure can happen to anyone, but we usually see it in people over 60,” says Daniel F. Pauly, MD, a cardiologist at Carilion Clinic.
Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol use
- Past heart attacks
- Sleep apnea
Symptoms of heart failure
Heart failure symptoms can develop gradually or come on fast. Watch for:
- Shortness of breath, especially during activity or while lying down
- Swelling in your legs, ankles, feet or abdomen
- Sudden weight gain (2 – 3 pounds in a day or 4 – 5 pounds in a week)
- Feeling tired or weak
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Persistent cough or wheezing
If you notice any of these, talk to your doctor right away. Early treatment can make a big difference.
What your doctor can do
“Heart failure can be managed and improved with the right treatment,” says Dr. Pauly. Your doctor might prescribe medicines to help you breathe better, manage swelling and be more active. These include:
- Diuretics, which help get rid of extra fluid in the body
- Beta blockers to regulate your heart rate and manage your blood pressure
- ARNI medications to relax your blood vessels
- Digoxin, which slows your heart rate
In more advanced cases, you may also need:
- Supplemental oxygen
- Implanted devices like a pacemaker or defibrillator
- Surgery to address issues like blocked arteries or damaged heart valves
You may choose to have your condition monitored from home instead of having to frequently visit your doctor. With remote monitoring, your doctors can implant a tiny wireless sensor in your pulmonary artery that will transmit your filling pressures to their office.
What you can do
Living well with heart failure means making some lifestyle changes. (And sticking with them!)
1. Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables
- Choose whole grains and high-fiber cereals (at least 5 grams of fiber, no added sugar)
- Use low-fat dairy and low-sodium products
- Watch your salt intake (aim for less than 1,500 milligrams a day)
2. Get active
When done safely, exercise is one of the best things you can do for your heart. It can improve blood flow, boost energy and even help you feel less winded.
Ask your doctor what’s safe for you. Many people benefit from:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Light strength training
Start slowly and work up gradually.
3. Adopt healthy daily habits
- Don’t smoke
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Control high blood pressure and diabetes
- Limit alcohol
- Get plenty of sleep
- Manage stress (yoga, mindfulness or talking to a counselor can help)
4. Pay attention to your body
You know your body best. If your symptoms worsen (even slightly!), call your doctor.
If you have questions or are experiencing concerning symptoms, don’t wait—reach out to your family doctor or established cardiologist.
