chf

[fusion235]

I returned from a trip with a bad cold and cough which was treated with antibiotics for 3 weeks.During that time I had trouble sleeping flat due to what I thought was nasal congestion.This is now past however I still had this cough and had difficulty sleeping except on many pillows or in a chair.I went back to the doctor and  he noticed a swelling in my ankle for which he gave me a diuretic. He has scheduled me for an echo-cardio and stress test--but his early read is CHF.As I understand it CHF cannot be cured only treated and that mortality is quite poor(50%in 5 years).
Comments?

[Fionajnz]

Lordy, those stats better be outdated, my heart failed after the birth of our third child, she is not yet 2yo and I plan to see her married and her kiddos too - so I have longer term goals than Often who posted she plans on seeing her granddaughter married :-)

On meds my EF improved to low normal.  I still have other issues, but this one I put aside after being assigned to the CHF clinic.  It is really important to drop salt (I seldom used it anyway) and do daily weight checks.  Any change in weight more than 3-5lbs needs to be reported.  

I have some residual heart issues and a leaky valve but overall I am doing well considering how I WAS doing.

Put the stats aside, they are only numbers.  Keep on living and enjoy your life.

Fiona  

[fusion235]

Thanks for the encouraging response---raises my spirits--will follow advise!

[often]

Those statistics are outdated.  Forget them.  If your doc confirms CHF, find a good cardiologist, one who specializes in heart failure is best.  There are new meds and devices available now that have made a big difference.  With diet and meds and exercise there is no reason for you not to hang around for a good long time.  I will say this....lowering the sodium intake is critical.  That does not just mean getting rid of your salt shaker.  I cannot stress this enough.  

Will there be a cure....probably not.  Can you be well-compensated.  Most definitely.  I was diagnosed a little over 3 years ago. My ejection fraction was 10%.  After a year, the meds had brought it back up to 20%.  I had the bi-v/ICD implanted a little over 2 years ago.  My heart size and function is normal.  At last echo, my ef was over 50%.  I was able to cut the main med in half.  And I WILL be dancing at my grandaughter's wedding...and she just turned 8 so you can see I plan on being around for quite awhile.  

Forget the stats, like I said.  Don't wait for your tests....start cutting back the sodium today.  Anything that comes in a box or a can is loaded with sodium.  

Good luck and let us know your results.