Helpful Tips
Lifestyle changes after heart failure hospitalization
Life after a heart failure hospitalization can be challenging. Making heart-healthy choices is one way that may help.
Heart healthy diet
A heart-healthy diet is rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, poultry, low-fat or non-fat dairy, nuts, legumes, and liquid plant oils. A heart-healthy diet also limits beverages and foods with added sugars, processed foods and meats, salt, alcoholic beverages, and tropic oils.
Tips to stay on track
Set reminders
Use a calendar or set reminders on your phone to take your medication and for doctor’s appointments.
Monitor weight
Weigh yourself daily and talk to your doctor right away if you gain more than 2-3 pounds in a day or more than 5 pounds in a week. Weight gain is also an indication that you are retaining too much fluid.
Manage stress
Find ways to manage stress. Try a class in meditation or spend a few minutes each day sitting quietly and picturing a peaceful scene.
Track symptoms
Use a daily diary or symptom tracker to note any symptom changes and share these with your doctor.
Stay active
Talk with your doctor about starting an exercise regimen and what physical activity might be right for you. Scheduling exercise or activity at the same time each day can help become part of your lifestyle.
Quit smoking and avoid alcohol
Smoking and drinking alcohol can have negative health effects, including those related to heart health. The American Heart Association recommends quiting smoking and avoiding alcohol, but if drinking alcohol, doing so in moderation.
Remember you are NOT ALONE IN THIS
Be sure to work with your healthcare team and keep them informed of any changes you notice in your condition. Your team, along with your family and friends, can support you in living with heart failure and doing everything you can to avoid another chronic heart failure hospitalization.
About VERQUVO
VERQUVO is a prescription medicine used in adults who are having symptoms of their chronic (long-lasting) heart failure, who have had a recent hospitalization or the need to receive intravenous (IV) medicines and have an ejection fraction (amount of blood pumped with each heartbeat) of less than 45 percent to reduce the risk of dying and to reduce the need to be hospitalized.