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The Top of The Page...)
If you are a heart patient
then you will need to be monitored every few months so that the doctor
can check the progress of your disease. They may perform an ultrasound
of your heart (echocardiogram) as well as blood tests and an other diagnostic
tests in order to determine whether or not you have congestive heart
failure.
You will also need to monitor
your own condition and take the steps that are needed in order to make
your heart as healthy as it can possibly be. Tracking your weigh is
one thing that you can do on your own. If you are steadily gaining weight,
it could be a sign that fluids are building up in your body from congestive
heart failure. On the other hand, losing weight might actually be a
healthy step to take for your heart. Before you start any kind of special
diet or exercise plan, be sure to first consult with your doctor.
With congestive heart failure,
fluids can get backed up into the lungs, liver, gastrointestinal tract,
and the arms and legs. This is called edema. Your first symptom may
be that you notice that your ankles are swollen. When fluids builds
up due to congestive heart failure, there will be a lack of oxygen and
nutrition to organs. This will cause damage to them and eventually,
they will cease to function properly. Take a look at the healthy heart
vitamins and supplements that are offered near the top of this page.
As always, do not buy or take any medications or supplements without
first consulting with your doctor.