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Treating Congestive Heart Failure
Treatment for congestive heart failure is determined by how advanced the disease is. It can range from lifestyle changes, such as adopting a better diet and getting more exercise, to more extreme interventions, such as heart surgery or a heart transplant.

Diet and Exercise as Treatments for Congestive Heart Failure
Fluid retention in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and in the organs and tissues (peripheral edema) is a major concern in patients with congestive heart failure. Since eating salty foods and drinking liquids only exacerbates the problem, salt and liquid restrictions are among the first dietary changes that your cardiologist will require. Excess liquid results in swollen ankles, feet and legs, and can also cause abdominal swelling and breathing difficulties.

Your physician will encourage you to exercise regularly. Aerobic exercise is best. Your hospital or clinic probably has a cardiac rehabilitation specialist who can customize an exercise program for you based on the results of exercise tolerance tests.

Medications
The medications your physician or cardiologist prescribes will be based on your symptoms and test results. Once your doctor knows what part of your heart is damaged and the nature of the malfunction, he or she can select medications that help increase the amount of blood that your heart is able to pump.

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CHF Symptoms
Congestive heart failure is a deadly condition. Fatigue, breathlessness, weight gain and chest pain are among the many symptoms of congestive heart failure.

CHF Risk Factors
While age can contribute to congestive heart failure, genetics, alcoholism and medical conditions are also risk factors for CHF.

 
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