Posted By Jenis Shah

Things to monitor in a patient with heart failure

Symptoms - like shortness of breath on minimal exertion or rest, chest pain, weight gain, swelling over feet, lightheadedness, 

Daily weight - This is the single most important parameter which can keep your patient out of hospital for long time. Patients with heart failure should maintain their dry weight. Any rapid rise in weight indicates fluid retention in body and lungs and can be early sign of  impending heart failure. Whereas excessive weight loss beyond your dry weight may cause compromise of kidney function.

Liquid intake - this is the second most important thing to monitor after weight. Patients with heart failure are often advised to take less fluid//liquids/water to maintain their dry weight and to avoid heart failure. 

Blood pressure - patients with heart failure should maintain their blood pressure within recommended limits. A high blood pressure can worsen heart failure whereas a low blood pressure can compromise kidney function.

Pulse/ Heart rate - abnormally high or low hear rate and/or abnormal rhythm like irregular pulse should can cause worsening of symptoms and worsening of heart failure. 

Urine out put - any abrupt decrease in urine out put is an indication of compromise of kidney function. You should inform your doctor immediately about it because it may require change in treatment. Continuation of same treatment without advice can further compromise kidney function.

 

Inform your doctor if you notice any abnormal symptom or weight gain or abnormal rhythm/heart rate or decreased urine out put. Earlier you seek your doctor’s guidance easier it is to manage these patients at home.