Heart Failure Research Paper

Introduction

Heart failure is a long-term (chronic) condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood through the body. When this happens, parts of the body do not get the blood and oxygen needed for them to function properly.

There is no cure for heart failure at this time, so it is important for you to take good care of yourself. One way to do that is to make sure you follow the treatment plan set by your health care provider. If you are living with heart failure, there are ways to help you manage the disease.

Follow these instructions at home:

Living with heart failure requires you to make changes in your life. Your health care team will teach you about the changes you will need to make in order to relieve your symptoms and lower your

If you feel any of these emotions and need help coping, contact your health care provider. Other ways to get help include:

Talking to friends and family members about your condition. This can give you a way to get support and guidance. Explain your symptoms to them and, if comfortable, invite them to attend appointments or rehabilitation with you.

Joining a patient support group for chronic heart failure. Talking with other people who have the same symptoms may give you new ways of coping with your disease and your emotions. Ask your health care provider about local support groups.

Stay up to date with your shots (vaccines). Staying current on pneumococcal and influenza vaccines is especially important in preventing germs from attacking your airways (respiratory infections).

Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

How to recognize changes in your condition

Knowledge is important. You need to know what changes to watch for in your condition. You also need to educate everyone in your family to know the signs and symptoms to monitor. Work closely with your health care team. Seek support from a specialty clinic or heart failure program, if