Main Page | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Screening | Reducing Your Risk | Talking to Your Doctor | Resource Guide
You have a unique medical history. Therefore, it is essential to talk with your doctor about your personal risk factors and/or experience with congestive heart failure (CHF). By talking openly and regularly with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.
General Tips for Gathering Information
Here are some tips that will make it easier for you to talk to your doctor:
Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor
The following are some suggested questions to discuss with your doctor, recommended by the American Heart Association:
About Congestive Heart Failure:
About Your Risk of Developing Congestive Heart Failure
About Treatment Options
About Medication
About Lifestyle Changes
About Outlook
References:
American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=1200000 .
Heart Failure Online website. Available at: http://www.heartfailure.org .
Konstam M, Dracup K, Baker D, et al. Heart failure: evaluation and care of patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Clinical practice guideline No. 11. AHCPR publication No. 94-0612. Rockville MD: Agency for Health Care Policy and Research; 1994.
Mayo Clinic Heart Center website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heart-disease/HB00057 . Accessed January 30, 2007
Last reviewed June 2008 by Michael J. Fucci, DO
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Copyright © 2007 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.