Cardiolody

Managing heart failure (HF) can be a daunting task, but you have every reason to be hopeful. Real patients share their experiences. AHA's Heart Failure Ambassadors

Making the right decisions starts with asking questions Good communication with your health care team can help you get the most out of your doctor's visits. Knowing what questions to ask and understanding what your health care provider is saying can help you feel confident that you're getting the best care. Communication is also the core of shared decision-making in advanced heart failure. You and your doctor should discuss your preferences and

If you have heart failure, it’s important to develop good relationships with all members of your health care team. Talk to them openly and honestly. Keep them informed about symptoms or changes in your condition so that they can help you. And follow their recommendations to manage your condition and have a full, active life. Download Partnering in your treatment: questions to ask your doctor (PDF) | Spanish (PDF) Your health care team may include: The

What is hyperkalemia? Hyperkalemia is a higher than normal level of potassium in the blood. Although mild cases may not produce symptoms and may be easy to treat, severe cases of hyperkalemia that are left untreated can lead to fatal cardiac arrhythmias, which are abnormal heart rhythms. You may be at risk for hyperkalemia because of: Chronic kidney disease Diabetes Congestive heart failure Medications that disrupt potassium balance, such as certain blood pressure lowering drugs Less common causes can

Good news! Many people with a low ejection fraction (or EF) have successfully improved it. Better heart failure management (HF) can lead to a better ejection fraction. By managing your heart failure carefully and following your treatment plan, you may be able to help yourself experience fewer symptoms and achieve a greater sense of well-being. As an added bonus, you may also see an improvement – or even a recovery – of your heart’s ejection

First steps for getting diagnosed It's always important to have regular checkups even if you're not noticing any particular symptoms. If you do notice any of the potential signs of heart failure (HF), take action and talk to a healthcare professional. Symptoms to report to your doctor It may be appropriate to begin testing for heart failure if you or a family member has any of the potential signs of heart failure, such