Heart Failure: Difference between revisions

Education of both the patient and their family about HF and its symptoms is important. The patient and/or the caregiver should be able to undertake appropriate actions such as adjusting the diuretic dose or contact the physician. (Class I recommendation, level of evidence C; see table 4) Education on the importance  and (side) effects of medication should be provided to the patient in order to increase compliance. (Class I recommendation, level of evidence C)

In patients with severe symptoms of HF, restriction of fluid intake may be considered. (Class IIa recommendation, level of evidence C) Also, patients should be educated on salt content of food and minimize intake in order to prevent fluid retention. (Class I recommendation, level of evidence C)

==== Body weight ====

CHF patients should carefully monitor their body weight. A sudden increase in weight is a potential consequence of fluid retention and deterioration of HF. When patients notice a weight gain of >2kg in 3 days they should consult a physician. (Class I recommendation, level of evidence C) In obese patients (body mass index of > 30 kg/m2), weight reduction should be promoted to prevent progression of HF, decrease symptoms and improve the overall wellbeing of the patient. (Class IIa recommendation, level of evidence C) Also, attention should be paid to weight loss due to malnutrition which is frequently observed in severe HF. An altered metabolism, inflammatory mechanisms or a decreased food intake may be important factors in the pathophysiology of cardiac cachexia in HF. (Class I recommendation, level of evidence C)