Congestive Heart Failure

CHF is usually a progressive disease. Treatment is aimed at stabilizing the condition and treating the symptoms. This usually includes controlling salt intake, water retention, and eliminating smoking and alcohol. Regulating these external problems will also help control blood pressure – a primary concern in heart diseases. Your doctor will treat any underlying cause of the CHF and monitor you closely. It will also be important for you to monitor your weight as weight gain can be an indication that you are retaining fluid. For more information on treatment measures, ways to reduce your sodium intake, prevention, and prognosis, see MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Heart Failure.