Heart failure is a chronic disease in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body oxygen and nutrient needs. In almost all patients treating heart failure does not mean curing the disease, but rather: Relieving the heart's workload, protecting it in the long term; Reducing symptoms, keeping the disease stable and slowing its progression; Avoiding hospitalization; Maintaining a good quality of life. Currently, the effectiveness of medications and other medical interventions, along with follow-up by teams specialized in heart failure, allows for effective control of the disease with a good quality of life. Equally important for this goal are the actions taken by each patient: Adopting lifestyle-related recommendations; Knowing and paying attention to warning signs of decompensation, which should prompt seeking medical attention. Lifestyle changes Take the medication as prescribed Prescribed medications for heart failure help the heart work better through various mechanisms, reducing its workload and alleviating symptoms. Strict adherence to medication is essential , even when there are no symptoms, because no symptoms mean that the disease is under control with the current medication. New eating habits The main thing is to start eating small, frequent meals throughout the day and reduce salt intake. Avoiding excessive fluid intake This means controlling fluid consumption , which should generally not exceed 1.5 liters per day, including water, other beverages, and the water contained in food, like soup. Weight control Weight must be monitored closely, always using the same scale, first thing in the morning after the first visit to the bathroom, without clothes and every day. Weight gain (about 2 kg or more) in 3-5 days can be an early sign of decompensation. Adapted exercise This means engaging in regular physical activity , which should be specifically planned for each patient according to their capacities, needs and characteristics. Walking on flat floor and periods of stationary cycling are examples of exercises suitable for many people with heart failure. Eliminating harmful habits Alcohol and tobacco should be eliminated as it further weakens the heart and increases the risk of complications. Rest and stress management Good quality sleep for an adequate number of hours and learning to manage stress are fundamental. Attention to the warning signs Symptoms of heart failure decompensation can go unnoticed because they sometimes develop slowly. Therefore, it is very important that patients know how their body behaves when the disease is stable. This way, they can easily detect small changes of decompensation. These are always warning signs : Shortness of breath and/or fatigue, especially when doing usual daily activities or lying down; Swollen feet, ankles or legs; Swollen abdomen; Quick weight gain; Persistent cough, especially at night when lying down; Changes in heart rate. Remember this: Living with heart failure means: Adhering to treatment, Making changes that lead to a healthier life, Knowing the usual behavior of the body and remaining alert to different signs. Combined with regular medical follow-up by a specialized team , this results in an active life with quality and safety. Author: Clinical Team of the Day Hospital for Heart Failure The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
