Congestive heart failure is not a disease but a condition that occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the needs of the body's tissues. About 285,000 people died of heart failure last year. Many therapies can help to ease the workload of your heart. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medicines, device implantation, and surgery. Studies show that medicines also help improve your heart function and make it easier for you to exercise or do physical activity.

You are the most influential force in the treatment of your heart failure. You must, must, must participate in your care. We at the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital Heart and Lung Transplant and Treatment Center are committed to help you improve your life. You may reduce the symptoms of heart failure and improve how you feel with medications and lifestyle changes. You are part of your health care team along with your doctors, nurses and your family. Your health care team will design a plan of management tailored to you. It will include:

* Medicines
* Diet
* Daily activity
* Exercise
* Lifestyle and health habits
* Family support

Link:
http://www.texasheart.org/PatientCare/Centers/HLTransplant/Recovery.cfm