Congestive Heart Failure Information

Congestive Heart Failure is a condition in which the heart is not pumping as well as it should. Heart failure may occur suddenly or develop gradually over a period of time. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, generalized weakness and fatigue, swelling (edema) of the ankles, feet and abdomen may arise.

Treating Congestive Heart Failure

Most cases of mild and moderate heart failure are treatable. Your physician will determine the course of treatment appropriate for the severity of your disease. For mild to moderate CHF, treatment usually requires a program of:

•  gentle balance of rest and exercise. If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area in California, you can take advantage of classes such as: Introduction to Integrative Yoga Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Healthier Living, and many more. Click here to find out class schedules for yoga & meditation.
•  proper diet. Click here to learn how to check and lower your cholesterol level.
•  modified daily activities
•  taking medications such as A.C.E. inhibitors; beta blockers, dioxin, diuretics, and potassium. Click here to learn more about what to expect while you are in the hospital for.

Caring For Yourself at Home

Recognizing Danger Signals at Home

•  Call your doctor before your next appointment if you develop any of the following symptoms:
•  New or increased shortness of breath or cough.
•  Weight gain of more than 3 pounds a day or 5 pounds a week.
•  Increased swelling in ankles, feet, and abdomen.
•  Persistent nausea or inability to eat.
•  Feeling of rapid heartbeats or palpitations.
•  Dizziness not related to change in body position.
•  Tightness, discomfort, or pain in your chest, jaw, or arm.

Click here to learn how to care for yourself or a family member at home:

Learning Resources is an online searchable database with information on classes, handouts, educational consultations and more. This tool was created by California Pacific Medical Center staff and physicians for patients and their families. Click here to download and print over three hundred medical and health information learning resources.