Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

 



Many times,  Fitness Trainers and Physical Therapists work with clients who have a history of cardiac issues.  They may have been diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in the past and are now being seen by you for therapy or fitness training.  With CHF, the heart muscle is not able to efficiently pump blood through the body.  The blood returning to the heart becomes "backed up" and moves into the lung and other body tissues.  If a client has a history of CHF and complains of the following symptoms, they must contact their doctor immediately.  As a member of their healthcare team, you should be able to educate your client on the following symptoms of their condition.

1) Coughing persistently
2) Fatigue and feelings of no energy
3) Shortness of breath with their ordinary activities (They did not complain of this prior)
4) Difficulty breathing when lying down
5) Frequent urination at night
6) Swelling of the legs, feet or stomach
7) Recent weight gain of 5 pounds in 1 week without a change in eating habits

Treatment may be as simple as a medication adjustment, but "better safe than sorry"