What are some resources available to heart failure patients and their caregivers?
American College of Cardiology2400 N St. NWWashington, DC 20037www.cardiosmart.org The ACCs CardioSmart website provides online consumer health information on heart failure and other heart-related conditions. American Heart Association7272 Greenville Ave.Dallas, TX 75231800-242-8721 (toll-free)www.americanheart.org Operates a consumer hotline to answer questions on general heart health and offers educational pamphlets, posters, and audiovisual material, at no charge or for a nominal fee. Its website has news on heart disease research as well…
What can a caregiver do to take care of themselves?
Caregiving may be one of the rewarding and worthwhile jobs youll ever undertake. But it can also cause immense strain and lead to depression and health problems of your own. Care for your own health, too It can be difficult to find the time to eat well, exercise, enjoy life, release stress, and get the rest and support you need when youre caring for someone else. …
What supports are available for heart failure patients and caregivers?
You dont have to do it alone. Help is available and support may come in many forms. A combination of family, friends, and neighbors plus professional or government services often helps. Ask for help.Tell friends and family that you need assistance. Accept help when its offered. Sometimes getting a few promises in place-to handle transportation to medical appointments or dinners on specific days-makes a big difference. …
Glossary
aldosterone : A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that signals the kidneys to conserve sodium and water; the result is greater blood volume and thus higher blood pressure. angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE): Converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a protein that constricts blood vessels and stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that raises blood pressure. …
