Congestive heart failure refers to a condition in which the heart can't pump enough blood to the body's other organs. The heart doesn’t actually fail, but it isn't working as efficiently as it should. The condition causes people to become short of breath and tired with any level of activity. Nonsurgical treatments for congestive heart failure focus on decreasing the progression of the disease, lessening symptoms and improving heart function.
Various Medications
According to the American Heart Association, a doctor can prescribe medications to treat congestive heart failure. Medications can improve the heart’s ability to pump blood, they can decrease stress on the heart and they can also decrease the progression of heart failure. ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and vasodilators help to expand blood vessels and decrease the resistance of blood flow within them. The heart doesn’t have to pump as hard to circulate blood throughout the body as a result. Beta blockers and digitalis can improve how well the heart pumps, lessening the risk of abnormal heart rhythms. Diuretics, or water pills, help reduce strain on the heart by eliminating excess salt in the body.
Low-Sodium Diet
The Cleveland Clinic recommends a low-sodium diet to help decrease fluid retention and swelling. A diet that contains a daily amount of 2,000mg or less of sodium will help decrease the added strain that excessive fluid puts on the heart. People with congestive heart failure experience swelling mainly in their legs and ankles, but it can occur elsewhere. Swelling occurs as a result of the diminished pumping ability of the heart, according to the American Heart Association. A decrease in blood flow out of the heart slows the blood flow returning to the heart. The blood backs up in the tissues, and this causes fluid to collect there. Swelling develops as a result.
Proper Diet
According to the Mayo Clinic, eating a healthful diet can relieve symptoms of congestive heart failure and it can prevent the disease from worsening. Foods high in fat and cholesterol can cause plaque, or a collection of these substances, to form inside the walls of the blood vessels. Plaque can harden and narrow the blood vessels, which limits the amount of blood flow through them. Eating a low-fat diet along with fresh fruits and vegetables can inhibit the growth of plaque inside the vessels, thus decreasing the progression of the condition.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
Performing an exercise routine that involves a strenuous workout, or engaging in activities that include shoveling, pushing or pulling heavy objects can worsen heart failure and its symptoms. People with congestive heart failure experience a decrease in their cardiac function and these activities force additional strain on the heart. The Cleveland Clinic suggests implementing a cardiac exercise program, one that a cardiologist approves of. The exercise program will help decrease heart failure symptoms and it might also prevent the condition from deteriorating.
