Main description:

"Choose Health over Heart Failure: A Patient Guide to America's Next Cardiac Epidemic" deals with the daily challenges facing the millions of people who have received a diagnosis of heart failure. With candour and compassion, Dr. McIvor explains how to live a full life despite the condition. In clear and straightforward language, he reviews: What heart failure is - and is not How you developed heart failure? What tests measure heart function? Warning signs that your condition is worsening? How to assemble and instruct your health care team? It offers dozens of tips to keep your weakened heart fit, including how to determine your salt and water intake, how to travel safely, and which medicines will make you feel better and live longer. Empowering to patients and endorsed by physicians, this brief paperback can help patients and families move beyond fear and anxiety to a solid understanding of the realities of heart failure.

Contents:

Table of Contents Section 1 - Understanding your Heart Failure1 - The Challenge of Chronic Disease2 - What is Heart Failure3 - How did I get Heart Failure Section 2 - How do we evaluate Heart Failure4 - Putting together you heart history5 - Signs of Heart Failure6 - Laboratory Tests Section 3 - Treating Heart Failure7 - What can I do to control my heart Failure8 - What can your Doctor do to control your Heart Failure9 - Inotropes10 - Diuretics11 - Vasodillators12 - Beta Blockers13 - Anticoagulants14 - Abnormal Rhythms in Heart Failure15 - Advanced Treatments for Heart Failure Section 4 - getting started with your Treatment16 - With your help, this approach works17 - Assemble your team18 - Tell you team what you want Glossary - The language of Heart Failure