How long do we have?

When I was first diagnosed with Heart Failure my very empathetic Doctor told me I would probably have 10 years to live. That was 2 years ago. Since then I have met people who have lived more than 20 years after initial diagnoses and have full and happy life.

6 months ago, I ask my Cardiologist about this 10 year limit and he was a little more positive. He did say that people with Heart failure usually die before those without heart failure but with modern advancements in drugs and treatments it wasn’t posable to put a firm date on anything.

I would be interested to know what you all thought, especially those who have endured Heart Failure for a long time

[Love100cats]

My husband is going for 30 years this year. I'm in my first year of h.f. but seeing how the NHS has kept him going for 3 decades fills me with hope. He has hit some sticky patches but they have always come up with something. I did ask this question last June and was told to check the NHS site and it said on average 10 years. I'm determined to live by the h.f. book of do's and count the years as they go by.🤗

[Dockdog]

Dear Ogilvie,

It is a question we often ask ourselves I suspect. I only know that before openheart surgery I doubt that I would have lasted another year or two. I am 74 and although my op was a success the results have not been nearly a year later bringing me back to a pre heart condition situation because damage has been done while seeking a diagnosis and finally an op without some serious risks. Having come through it thus far I am pleased with every day, every month of progress and hope another 12 months may see me with more improvement. Life gets to be a risk with or without HF, we just don't know what is around the corner so please don't dwell on it, just live life as fully as you can, enjoy it and continue to be positive and the years won't matter.

Wishing you all the very best.