Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.  Congestive heart failure may occur due to coronary artery disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, infection of the heart muscle, problems with the heart’s valves as well as due to some medications, thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies.   

Symptoms

• Constantly tired or weak
• Dizzy spells
• Frequent urination during the night
• Problems breathing when lying down
• Shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing when you exert yourself
• Swollen ankles or feet
• Waking at night coughing or short of breath.

Treatment
Through intensive outpatient management and education, the Congestive Heart Failure program at Northwest Hospital Center helps manage a patient’s health and improve quality of life.  Based on examinations and tests, a physician will develop a treatment plan to relieve some of the symptoms and make a patient more comfortable, including:

• Activity as recommended
• Dietary changes to reduce intake of salt and sodium
• Medication to help the heart work better
• Referral for heart transplantation
• Rest to give the heart a break.

For More Information
To learn more about the Congestive Heart Failure Program, call 410-521-8383.