It is a syndrome in which the heart is unable to pump an adequate supply of blood to meet the oxygen and nutritional needs of the body.
The decrease in amount of blood pumped with each heart contraction causes an increase in circulatory pressure.
The heart consists of four chambers - the right and left ventricles, and the right and left atria.
The upper chambers, the atria, receive blood from various parts of the body and pump it into the ventricles.
The right ventricle pumps blood into the lungs, and the left ventricle pumps blood into all parts of the body.
Myocardial infarction.
Heart arrhythmias.
Hypertension.
Congenital heart defects.
Lung infections and diseases.
Anemia.
Obesity.
Fatigue.
Shortness of breath.
Rapid heart rate.
Edema (fluid retention).
Excessive urination at night.
Cold, sweaty skin.
Restlessness or confusion.
Dry or frothy cough.
Unexplained rapid weight gain.
Loss of appetite.
Avoid stress. (Provide "Relaxation Techniques" handout.)
Avoid fatigue by gradually increasing activity, with planned rest periods.
Eat well-balanced, low-sodium diet. (Provide "Restrict Sodium" and "Daily Food Guide" handouts.)
Avoid extremes in temperature.
Take medication exactly as prescribed. (Provide medication handouts as applicable.)
Weigh daily to control weight and to detect fluid retention.
Restrict fluids if ordered.
Report the following symptoms immediately:
Weight gain.
Loss of appetite.
Increased shortness of breath.
Edema.
Persistent cough.
Frequent urination at night.
Acute pulmonary edema.
Damage to such organs as liver, kidney, or brain.
Pneumonia