Treatments for heart failure

There is no cure for heart failure, but it can be successfully managed with diet, exercise and medications.

• Diet. A low-sodium (low-salt) diet helps prevent episodes of heart failure by minimizing the fluid retention that creates extra work for the heart. Generally, limiting sodium to 2,000 milligrams (two grams) a day is recommended. This may sound like a lot; however, one teaspoon of salt equals 2,360 milligrams of sodium.
• Exercise. Exercise improves circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body, which helps the heart work more efficiently. The total amount of physical activity in your day is more important than its intensity or difficulty. High-intensity sports, such as power lifting, stair-step machines and jogging, are not recommended for people with heart failure. Activities that are less intense but can be sustained for longer periods, like walking, cycling or water aerobics, are preferred.
• Medications. Medications used for heart failure help the heart in different ways. They may remove extra fluid (diuretics), lower blood pressure (ACE Inhibitors/ARBs), dilate blood vessels (nitrates), increase the heart’s pumping strength (digoxin) or decrease the heart’s workload so less oxygen is required (beta blockers). Take your medications as directed and never stop taking them without first checking with your doctor.
• Devices. For some patients with heart failure, devices called defibrillators or biventricular pacemakers may help improve symptoms. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators protect against dangerous heart rhythms. Biventricular pacemakers can help a weakened heart coordinate its contractions.  These devices are not right for everyone. Talk to your doctor about whether these devices could help your condition.