Question 2: What is something that can be difficult when patients are first diagnosed with heart failure, but will get easier over time?
Heart Failure Society of America @HFSA
- Sometimes it’s hard to accept that one has a problem with their heart. This can lead to feeling isolated, depressed, hopeless, and scared... #HFChat2023
- It can be challenging to now need medications regularly (sometimes multiple times a day) and to change to a low in salt diet, while also watching fluid intake. Some find that support groups are helpful. Others find benefit with antidepressants and psychotherapy... #HFChat2023
- Most importantly, as one works with their doctor to improve their symptoms with medications that are beneficial to their heart, they may find that they regain function and improve their quality of life. #HFChat2023
The Heart Brothers Foundation @HeartBrothers1
- Changing diet—especially the reduction or elimination of sodium intake–is always hard to get used to for new #heartfailure patients. #HFWeek2023 #HFChat2023 #LowSodiumDiet #ReduceSodium
- Lifestyle can be difficult to change, as you'll need to make changes to your diet and learn how to manage your medication and symptoms. As you learn how to manage your meds and monitor your symptoms, you’ll get a better idea of when to call your doctor. #HFChat2023
- Receiving a diagnosis is overwhelming. Patients must navigate lifestyle changes, share their dx with loved ones, face potential career changes, & more, all of which can lead to depression and anxiety. Time can help patients settle into a new way of living. #HFWeek2023