Hospitalization may be required until acute symptoms subside. Treatment is focused on relief of symptoms. Digitalis, vasodilators (drugs that dilate blood vessels), ACE-inhibitors, diuretics (water pills), nutritional supplements, and other medications may be prescribed to reduce symptoms.
The underlying disorder (cause) should be treated. Associated severe arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) may need to be treated with an implantable defibrillator.
A low-salt diet may be prescribed, and fluid may be restricted in some cases. Activity may often continue as tolerated. A heart transplant may be considered if the heart function is very poor. Daily monitoring of body weight may be advised. Weight gain of 3 or 4 pounds or more over 1 or 2 days may indicate fluid accumulation. Smoking and drinking alcohol may worsen the symptoms.
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