- Congestive heart failure may result from clogging of the arteries, high blood pressure, past heart attack, heart valve disease, congenital heart defects or infection of the heart muscle or valves.
- Symptoms of congestive heart failure may include difficulty breathing, weight gain due to fluid build up and confusion.
- Patients diagnosed with congestive heart failure should avoid strenuous activities and eat a heart-healthy diet that is low-fat and low in salt. Plenty of rest is also crucial.
- Congestive heart failure can cause a build up of fluids that results in the swelling of the legs, ankles and feet (also known as edema). Sweating or "seeping" from the legs is a sign of edema. If fluids build up in the lungs, this is referred to as pulmonary congestion which can lead to becoming an invalid.
- A doctor prescribes medicine to strengthen the heart such as a beta-blocker to lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate. A diuretic to help the body dispose of extra water and sodium will also be prescribed.
- Congestive heart failure is a serious medical condition. Consult a physician for diagnosis and treatment.
