How Do You Prevent Congestive Heart Failure?
Congestive heart failure occurs when your heart fails to pump sufficient blood to satisfy the demand for oxygen and nutrients of the body. Your heart will become weak and stiff over time, and your blood will back up into the liver, the lungs and the legs and ankles. Congestive heart failure is a serious condition and can be fatal if not treated properly. Be aware of early symptoms of congestive heart failure, which include fatigue, diminishing ability to exercise, swelling in ankles and legs, shortness of breath — particularly during exercise, difficulty to sleep at night and overactive bladder. Lower your cholesterol by changing your diet and exercise. Develop a healthy diet that is low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Lose weight, if you are overweight or obese. Ideally, your body mass index (BMI) should range from 21 to 25. Exercise regularly. Lower your blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause heart attack (myocardial infarction), dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophy, and str