Hi my name is Dave and am a very angry 64year old(just!!!) within the last two years I have beaten prostate cancer and am devasted to now being diagnosed with congestive heart failure in May. I had a l/p echo which showed a severely impaired systotolic function, dilated LV, severely dilated LA, and LVEF of 26% Good news I’ve lost weight with taking Furosemide but am constantly fatigued and confused how much I should push my heart whilst still waiting for more tests and results. Have had results of the angiogram which showed my arteries are in good nick.😊 . Am taking the following meds Bisoprolol 1.25mg. Perindopril 8mg Spironolactone 25mg Furosemide 120mg.
Look forward to hearing from anyone who would like a chat regards Dave
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I was diagnosed with heart failure in April with no obvious trigger symptoms.
I started with slow walking and now aim for ten minutes brisk walking each day - I downloaded the NHS app Active 10 - and 10,000 steps. I too am not sure how far I should push myself but am seeing the cardiologist on Friday so will be asking the question then. We have two very young grandchildren and have always helped look after them but at the moment my daughter insists on coming too when we go out!!
You have had a lot to contend with in the last couple of years,but it is really good that you want to do the best for yourself . As your specific query is how much you can safely push yourself, it might be worth asking your GP if you can be referred to your local cardiac rehab programme. You would be closely monitored and encouraged to pace yourself,but will be able to benefit your heart in a safe environment. You would also meet like minded people.
It is reassuring that you are taking your medication. You may find that the doses increase over time,but this is common practice. It is reassuring to know your coronary arteries are in good working order!
Thanks everyone for your advice and support . Philippa NN Hospital (Norfolk) don’t have a cardio rehab programme for heart failure only for patients who have had a heart attack. Am going for another cardio gram on Weds and ampatiently waiting for the results of 24 heart monitor. Is it usual to have to wait a few weeks for results.
Hi Dave. Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, I can understand why you are so frustrated, given your recent medical history. I have heart failure too, was diagnosed six years ago when I was 31. It took me a long time to come to terms with it, but I feel pretty good about it all nowadays. My heart is not getting any better, but I have been stable for quite a long time now and am able to live my life, albeit with a bit less energy than I'd like.
I also struggle to find the right level of exercise, but I walk a lot and try to go to the gym (for a gentle workout) a couple of times a week. I also swim (slowly!) and hula hoop now and again, plus run around after my six-year-old. Cardiac rehab would be a great idea, I think. I wish it had been available to me when I was diagnosed. I'd definitely ask your GP if it is available to you.
Your body will still be getting used to all the medication at the moment, so there's every chance you will feel a bit better over the coming months and years. Feel free to message me if there's anything you think I could help with
Hi Philippa, Ann and Laura many thanks for taking time in replying to my worries and concerns regarding my Heart failure. Am taking your advice and making enquiries about Cardiac Rehab programme. Kind regards Dave
I have just seen the cardiologist and she assured my that I should continue with my exercise regime and that I was not overdoing it. She also recommended swimming but said no heavy lifting or other activities like that in the gym.
I hope that you are able to get good advice too. I will be having another echo shortly to see if my 25% LVEF has improved and also an MRI to try to discover what triggered my heart failure.
I think Yoga and Meditation will help you Big way. Trust it helped me Indian Medicine Ie Ayurveda under expert guidance can be Game Changer You can reduce dependence on medicines slowly I did Stopped Statins
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