Treatment for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

Different medicines can reduce strain on the heart, help the heart pump more efficiently, control blood pressure, remove excess fluid or protect the kidneys. The right combination depends on your symptoms, scan results, kidney function, potassium level, blood pressure and other conditions.

Treatment is adjusted gradually when needed. You may have blood tests, blood-pressure checks and reviews after starting or changing a medicine. Breathlessness, fatigue, cough, swollen ankles and palpitations are useful symptoms to report rather than problems to manage alone.

Take each medicine at the prescribed time and keep a written list of doses. Do not add anti-inflammatory painkillers, herbal products or salt substitutes without checking first. Ask whether you need a fluid or salt plan, and clarify what to do if vomiting, diarrhoea or poor intake makes you dehydrated.

Keep appointments even when you feel stable. Bring home blood-pressure readings and notes about swelling, sleep, walking distance and any missed doses. A chronic disease review can provide a practical place to check progress and update the plan.

Get emergency help for severe breathlessness at rest, chest pain or pressure, collapse, fainting, blue lips, or sudden confusion. Remain upright if breathing is difficult and follow local emergency guidance.

Call your healthcare team promptly for rapidly increasing swelling, a new persistent cough, marked reduction in activity tolerance, dizziness after a dose change or sustained palpitations. Do not double a missed dose unless your prescriber has given that instruction.

Ask which medicines target fluid, blood pressure and heart strain; when kidney and potassium tests are due; what symptoms mean the plan needs changing; and whether you need a cardiology review or repeat scan.