There are several types of medicines for heart failure. You may need more than one medicine to control your heart failure.

Heart failure medicines can:

• Help improve symptoms
• Help you feel better
• Help you stay out of the hospital
• Help reduce your chances of death from heart failure

1. ACE inhibitors widen blood vessels.

• ACE inhibitors make it easier for the heart to pump blood through your body.

2. Beta-blockers improve the way your heart works.

• Beta-blockers help widen blood vessels and keep the heart from beating too fast.

3. Diuretics, or "water pills," help your body get rid of extra fluid and sodium.

• Diuretics can help you breathe easier. They also reduce the swelling in other parts of your body (eg, feet and lower legs).

4. Digoxin, or digitalis, helps your heart pump more strongly.

• Digoxin can help reduce your symptoms and help you function better.

How to help yourself

  Weigh yourself daily. If your weight goes up, you may have excess
  water. Keep a daily record of your weight.

  Use less salt. Your doctor will probably suggest a low-salt diet.
  Eating salt makes the body retain water.

  Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating well will help you
  stay at a healthy weight.

  Stay active. Physical activity will make your muscles stronger.
  This can help you feel better and do your daily tasks more easily.

  Don't smoke. If you do smoke, talk to your doctor about a
  program to help you quit.

  Avoid alcohol. Too much alcohol may worsen high blood
  pressure and heart failure. Alcohol is also high in calories.

  Get plenty of rest. Take breaks during the day if you need them.

 

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