Treatments for congestive heart failure will vary with the severity and cause of the failure, but treatment is geared to the reduction of symptoms - fatigue, shortness of breath and swelling. One of the most important aspects of treatment is adherence to a low-sodium diet. This will help diminish fluid retention and will decrease the heart's work. It is extremely important that people with congestive heart failure weigh themselves every morning to assess the retention of fluid in their body. There are several types of medications that the doctor may order to treat congestive heart failure.
Diuretics help the body to rid itself of extra fluid and sodium.
This helps to reduce the heart's workload making it easier for the heart to pump. A common effect of taking water pills, is the loss of potassium. Your doctor will let you know if dietary changes are enough to compensate for your potassium loss or if you should take a potassium supplement. Another medication often prescribed is Digoxin. Digoxin is prescribed to increase the force of each heart beat.