How to Release Water Retention in CHF Patients

Congestive heart failure occurs when a weakened heart becomes unable to pump blood adequately. Instead of moving through the circulatory system as it should, the blood backs up and puts pressure on blood vessels. Fluid is pushed out of the vessels and into other body tissue, causing edema, or water retention. According to the Ohio State University Medical Center College of Medicine, about 90 percent of hospitalizations associated with heart failure are related to water retention. A number of measures may be taken to help release the fluid.

Instructions

• 1

  Take diuretics exactly as prescribed to help your kidneys produce more urine and flush out excess fluid and sodium. Take a potassium supplement, too, if prescribed, as diuretics can deplete potassium to dangerously low levels.

• 2

  Comply with your physician's recommendations for fluid intake. Restrict it, if recommended. Be prepared to measure each serving of fluids you consume.

• 3

  Reduce your intake of salt by avoiding prepared foods and by seasoning food with herbs and spices rather than salt. Ask that your restaurant meals be prepared without added salt and served without sauce or cheese, both of which often are high in sodium.

• 4

  Rest and exercise according to your physician's instructions. Do not participate in any exercise program without your physician's permission.

• 5

  Rest with your feet up when your feet or legs are swollen.

• 6

  Weigh yourself every morning before breakfast. Ask your physician about what degree of weight gain you need to report -- the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine suggests 3 pounds per week. Sudden weight gain is a sign that you're retaining fluid and should be reported to your physician immediately.