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Living with Congestive Heart Failure

Heart disease refers to any number of conditions that affect the heart, including coronary artery (or heart) disease and congenital heart disease. Coronary heart disease is characterized by the narrowing of small blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. This condition can often be treated or prevented with healthy lifestyle choices.

Heart failure means that the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This condition can be caused by the blockage of blood vessels caused by coronary heart disease or high blood pressure. People with advanced congestive heart failure (CHF) have episodes of serious illness, and then long periods in which their illness seems to stay the same. Although people may recover from their episode of serious illness, it's possible they won't return to their previous level of functioning.

Heart Disease Statistics

Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for men and women, and is the leading cause for heart failure. When the heart's pumping action is lost, blood may back up in other parts of the body and cause fluid to build up in the lungs, liver, gastrointestinal tract, arms and legs.

Heart Disease Treatment

People with advanced CHF may need help with daily tasks, such as fixing food and getting dressed, and with other activities, such as running errands and housekeeping. At some point, there may also be a need for home health care support, such as managing medications, coordinating physician visits or transitioning home after a hospital stay.

How Patient’s with Heart Disease Benefit from Interim’s Care

Interim HealthCare has experience in helping individuals and their families live with advanced heart disease. We can customize a program that:
 
  • Provides medication reminders, assistance, administration and reconciliation
  • Teaches an individual how to recognize early changes in how they feel, and to take appropriate action to decrease episodes of serious illness
  • Develops and/or prepares a heart healthy diet (including shopping and meal preparation, if necessary)
  • Assists with physician follow up including transportation
  • Helps with the daily activities of living such as bathing and dressing

Need Help at Home?

Send us your questions about home care or a specific request. We're here to help.