Only a doctor can determine the right combination of medication to treat symptoms of a particular condition. According to the British Heart Foundation these are some of the medications commonly used to treat heart failure:
Diuretics
Diuretics (water tablets) increase the amount of water and salt passed from the kidneys into the urine. They are therefore a great help in relieving any ankle swelling and breathlessness caused by heart failure.
Diuretics sometimes cause excessive potassium loss through the urine. This may need to be countered by a second drug within the same tablet. Diuretics sometimes cause leg cramp. Also, the more potent diuretics act very quickly, which means that you may need to pass water urgently. This can be very inconvenient, so you will need to plan to take the tablets at a time that fits in with your daily activities.
ACE inhibitors
ACE inhibitors have several effects on the circulation including a relaxing effect on the arteries. This helps the heart as it reduces the work the heart has to do to pump the blood into the circulation.
ACE inhibitors usually produce a substantial improvement in your quality of life, and improve your outlook. Your doctor will take care to start the drugs at a low dose, so that you do not have a sudden fall in blood pressure. Before prescribing ACE inhibitors, your doctor will take a blood test to measure how well your kidneys are working. This test will be repeated from time to time once you have started taking the drugs.
Some patients on ACE inhibitors develop a troublesome cough which may be intolerable and mean that you have to stop taking them. Not all patients with heart failure benefit from taking ACE inhibitors. People with narrowing of heart valves or certain forms of cardiomyopathy are less likely to benefit from them.
Digitalis
Digitalis, or its derivative digoxin, was for many years the cornerstone of drug treatment for heart failure. Digoxin is still very useful in patients who have a rapid, irregular heart rhythm (known as 'atrial fibrillation') which can lead to heart failure, but it is not often prescribed now for people with a normal rhythm. However, it retains a place in the treatment of heart failure in certain patients. Digoxin may cause loss of appetite and nausea. Less frequently it can cause vomiting, painful or enlarged breasts, rash, palpitation, and fainting. You should tell your doctor if you get any of these symptoms, as it may be necessary to adjust the dose.
Beta-blockers
In the past it was thought that beta-blockers were not suitable for people with heart failure. However, recent research suggests that some patients with heart failure may benefit from taking them. A cardiologist's advice is needed before this treatment is started.
Lifestyle changes such as eating less salt, exercising in moderation, and getting enough rest may help relieve some symptoms experienced in all stages of heart failure. Exercise and rest are both important. More about lifestyle changes
Last Updated on: 20.01.2005
