Take care of your heart!

Congestive heart failure is a condition that no one wants to learn they have. It can’t be cured, but the good news is, it can be managed by making healthy lifestyle choices and with certain medications. Congestive heart failure (or heart failure) is caused by high blood pressure, diabetes and coronary artery disease. It reduces the ability of the heart to pump blood to the lungs and or to muscles of the body. Symptoms of congestive heart failure include dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath, a result of the build up of fluid in the lungs.

Since congestive heart failure cannot be cured, here are some things you can do to lessen the symptoms:

· Be mindful of your salt intake. It will lower your blood pressure and help you to eliminate fluids. This will cut down the likelihood of edema.

· Lose weight. A ten percent drop in body fat will reduce the workload on your heart.

· Eat the right foods. Fish, whole grains and lots of fruits and vegetables will provide your body with the essential “good fat” and nutrients it needs.

· Getting enough exercise will help reduce body fat as well as add years to your life.

· Most likely your doctor will put you on a diuretic to help keep your fluid retention at a normal level. Eat foods that are high in potassium because diuretics deplete the body’s potassium levels.

· Stay clear of sick people because bronchitis and respiratory infections double the symptoms of congestive heart failure.

A weakened heart muscle can compromise several systems in your body. If you are diagnosed with a heart condition, make sure you take your medications as prescribed and watch your diet and exercise levels so you can live as symptom free as possible.