Heart Failure Other Information: advanced care planning, how to care for patient, symptoms, when to see doctor, heart devices, heart transplant, heart surgery – Doctor

Heart Failure - Other Information

How do I care for someone with heart failure?

Notify the doctor if the person’s symptoms are worsening or if the person does not seem to be responding to treatment.
Watch out for any new symptoms or worsening of current symptoms, such as:

Shortness of breath unrelated to usual exercise or after waking up
Increased swelling around ankles or stomach
Unexplained weight gain over a short period of time
Stomachaches
Trouble sleeping
Dry, hacking cough
Increased tiredness

What happens in advanced heart failure?

Advance Care Planning is important for heart failure patients to make plans about their future health care, especially when they are not in a position to make or communicate their healthcare choices. Shared decision-making among patients, their families and the medical team in establishing the goals of care should be initiated early.

Unlike cancer patients, some heart failure patients can experience an unpredictable pattern of decline. Learn more on Advance Care Planning at NHCS here.

When should you see a doctor?

If you have been experiencing the symptoms of heart failure for a prolonged period of time or your symptoms are worsening, please visit a GP (general practitioner). Please proceed to the Emergency Department immediately if you experience sudden, severe symptoms.