Congestive heart failure, known as CHF, is a progressive heart condition that can make it difficult for seniors to remain independent and maintain their daily routine. Learn more about the stages of this heart condition and different treatment options available.
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4 Stages of CHF
Congestive heart failure (CHF) progresses in 4 general stages. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help seniors and their families manage their condition.
Stage 1
Seniors may be asymptomatic during stage 1. However, they may have breathlessness or fatigue during physical activity.
Treatment
- Monitoring
- Healthy diet & exercise
- Manage chronic conditions
Stage 2
Seniors may experience fatigue, heart pounding, or shortness of breath when performing daily tasks, but they may be comfortable when resting.
Treatment
- Monitoring
- Healthy diet & exercise
- Manage chronic conditions
- Medication
Stage 3
Seniors exhibit signs of fatigue, heart pounding, and shortness of breath during daily activities. They may also notice swelling in extremities.
Treatment
- Restrict sodium in diet
- Monitor fluid intake
- Daily weight tracking
- Manage chronic conditions
- Medication
Stage 4
Seniors constantly experience fatigue, heart pounding, shortness of breath, and swelling — even when resting.
Treatment
- Restrict sodium in diet
- Monitor fluid intake
- Daily weight tracking
- Manage chronic conditions
- Medication
- Palliative care
- Surgery
CHF is a progressive disease without a cure. Once a senior progresses from one stage to another, there is no turning back. That’s why managing health at each stage is so important. At Caring Senior Service, our caregivers are specially trained to assist seniors in managing CHF. Reach out today to learn more!