Bedrest or reduced physical activity may be recommended to minimize the heart's work load. Decreased fluid intake may be recommended. Vasodilator medications such as captopril, enalapril, and hydralazine may be used to reduce the heart's work load. Diuretic medications may be used to reduce fluid accumulation. Digitalis may be prescribed to increase the muscle contraction of the heart.
Heart failure is a serious disorder that carries a possibility of reduced life expectancy.
There is no cure, but many forms of heart failure are well controlled with medication and correction of the underlying disorders. It may take the form of a chronic illness. Heart failure worsens with an infection or other physical stressors. Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate congestive heart failure may be present. Call your health care provider if symptoms change, worsen, or do not improve with treatment.