Even in figurative terms, a broken or failing heart is no easy thing to manage. In fact, it can cause or contribute to other mental, emotional, and physical distresses.
Heart failure happens when the heart cannot provide the body with the blood supply it needs or is too weak to do so. In medical parlance, it’s also known as congestive heart failure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 6 million adults in the US have heart failure; it affects mainly adults but can also occur in children.
While this condition is chronic (long term) and requires monitoring from a licensed physician, it doesn’t mean that heart failure patients cannot live life with comfort and ease. We just have to make changes, which though small, can impact the management of the disease’s symptoms greatly.
Small shifts today, sizeable ease tomorrow
If healthy lifestyle choices are recommended for people who are generally healthy, moreso for heart failure patients. Thankfully, these modifications are doable and sustainable. In fact, patients with mild to moderate heart failure who apply doctor-recommended lifestyle recommendations can often live their lives normally.
Move your body
Engaging in regular physical activity can make your heart grow stronger. However, the keyword is regular; you must do it consistently.
It can be something as simple (and free) as walking, attending to your garden, house chores, or swimming. However, especially if you’re just about to begin exercising from being physically inactive for quite some time, it’s best to consult your doctor and/or cardiac rehabilitation team so they can design the most suitable exercise plan for you.
Ease your mind
Worrying or getting anxious about your condition won’t make it better. In fact, it can make it worse. So it’s best to try and find ways that will relax you and calm your mind.
As with regular physical exercises, it’s vital to consistently do these practices that put your mental state at ease. It can be:
- Meditating for 15 to 20 minutes a day
- Practicing gratefulness
- Breathing deeply
- Joining a support network
- Praying
Get enough rest
Having a healthy mental state and helping ensure that you perform physical activities well also rely on the quantity and quality of sleep you normally get.
When you rest, be it a full night’s sleep or a daytime nap, it gives the heart an opportunity to pump blood more easily. Sleep is also the time when our body repairs itself. Thus, getting the proper amount and quality can lead to better overall health.
If you’re constantly having trouble sleeping, it’s best to consult a professional for advice and a plan that’s right for you. Advice for better sleep may include developing a sleep routine, special pillows, and removing any sources of noises or bright lights during nighttime.
Dealing with a failing heart from day to day may not be easy. But taking tried-and-true steps towards the right direction, no matter how small, can help you lead it with ease, comfort, and perhaps even fulfillment and gratitude.
