Moderate heart failure: what to know

Heart failure can reduce the amount of blood moved forward and cause fluid to collect. This may lead to breathlessness with activity or when lying down, fatigue, a cough, or swollen ankles. Palpitations can occur, particularly when an abnormal rhythm such as atrial fibrillation is also present. Symptoms can vary from day to day and do not by themselves show how well the heart is working.

A clinician may assess your symptoms, blood pressure, heart rhythm, weight pattern, kidney function and heart tests. Hypertension and other heart conditions can contribute, while treatment is tailored to the type and cause of heart failure.

Take medicines exactly as prescribed and keep appointments for a chronic disease review. Do not change diuretics or other heart medicines without advice. Ask how to monitor weight, swelling, breathing and blood pressure, and report a clear change early. Follow the fluid, salt, activity and vaccination advice given for your condition; the right plan depends on kidney function and other illnesses.

Plan rest between activities, avoid smoking, and keep a current list of medicines. Family members can learn your action plan and the symptoms that mean you need help.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness at rest, chest pain, fainting, new confusion, blue or grey lips, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Seek prompt clinical advice if swelling increases, a cough becomes worse, palpitations are sustained, or you cannot lie flat comfortably.

Ask what type of heart failure you have, which symptoms to record, how your medicines affect the kidneys and blood pressure, and exactly when to call for help.