Heart failure treatment should be used to slow the progression and reduce the rate of hospitalization

The treatment of heart failure should help slow the progression of the disease, improve survival and quality of life of patients, relieve symptoms and reduce hospitalization rates, said Dr. Alain Cohen Solal (Beaujon Hospital, Clichy), during a press conference in Paris in order to present the data on heart failure related to the SHAPE (Study group on Heart failure Awarness and Perception in Europe) study.
"Treatment options include lifestyle modification, drug therapy, the use of medical devices and surgery," he says.

According to him, the healthy lifestyle are essential to support heart function and to minimize the effects of the disease.

"The adoption of a healthy lifestyle has to stop tobacco use, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining an adequate body weight and a healthy diet, as well as the practice of a regular "physical activity he describes.

Smoking is a risk factor for coronary artery disease and heart failure, he says. "In fact, cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide, which impairs the ability of the body to transport oxygen." As for alcohol, it can also affect the contractile function of the heart.

Maintaining an adequate body weight and a healthy diet are important because obesity is a risk factor for heart failure, hypertension, stroke, heart disease and diabetes.

"Being overweight, says Dr. Cohen-Solal, imposes an additional burden on the heart, which prevents it from fulfilling the oxygen requirements of the tissues of the body. A rapid weight gain may be due to the development of a swelling that can stem from the administration of drugs (diuretics that increase urine output). Daily weighing contributes to the success of treatment. "

In patients with heart failure at an advanced stage, the diet should include a low salt intake, as high intakes promote fluid retention and thus the development of edema.

High cholesterol is also a cause of coronary disease itself may be responsible for heart failure: a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat contributes, therefore, to reduce this risk, says cardiologist .

Finally, he adds, a moderate aerobic exercise can improve heart function. In addition, it has a significant impact on the tone and quality of life of patients.

SHAPE is a European organization dedicated exclusively to improve the understanding of heart failure by the public and supported by health professionals.