It is a syndrome that affects almost 2% of the adult population and its early detection and treatment is essential to improve its evolution.
Last Thursday, the Heart Failure Unit of the Cardiology Service of the La Luz University Hospital, organized a Heart Failure day aimed at patients and family members with this condition who packed the hospital's conference room.
The most relevant aspects of the disease were addressed in terms of lifestyle habits and care that these patients must have to live together in the best possible way.
The head of the Cardiology Service at the La Luz University Hospital, Dr. Roberto Martín Reyes, opened the session by stating that it is essential that the patient be aware of their illness and be involved in its care. “These meetings are precisely for that and it is the path that we must take with you so that you have a more direct relationship with the doctor.”
Dr. Teresa Alvarado, head of the Heart Failure Unit, has explained the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF), the causes, signs, symptoms and how to act against them. “It is a syndrome that affects almost 2% of the adult population and its early detection and treatment is essential to improve its evolution,” she highlighted.
Many of you know me, the cardiologist has recognized, and as you know, our primary healthcare objective is the continued and comprehensive care of patients who suffer from this disease in which the heart cannot efficiently pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body. . “We help them understand their pathology, promote self-care and carry out close monitoring that allows us to optimize treatment, in accordance with the recommendations of the clinical practice guidelines to improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients in the more efficient. You have to take care of yourself, not worry,” she stressed.
Next, the nurse specialized in Nutrition and Sports, as well as a sexologist at the La Luz University Hospital, Fuensanta Madrigal, provided some advice to acquire, improve and/or maintain healthy eating habits, regular physical activity to train muscles and heart, sexuality , rest, leisure and social relationships.
The head of the Nephrology service at the hospital, Dr. Fernando Tornero, explained the most relevant aspects of the daily life of the cardiorenal patient. General symptoms and those related to congestion caused by fluid retention.
He briefly reviewed the different pharmacological treatments for heart failure, the effect of beta blockers or antialdosterone drugs, among others, pointing out that they increase potassium in the blood.
But in addition to drugs, the nephrologist explained other measures that can help reduce congestion, such as avoiding the consumption of salt and foods rich in sodium such as preserves, frozen foods, meats and sausages, mollusks and crustaceans or fats, among many others. or the intake of foods rich in potassium (fruits and vegetables, chocolate, some legumes and nuts).
On the other hand, Dr. Tornero has indicated to all attendees that high fluid intake prevents the formation of kidney stones and reduces the risk of urinary infection, but in patients with heart failure, on some occasions, it is necessary to restrict water intake.
Finally, there was the testimony of Cecilia Salvador, a patient with structural alterations of the heart since birth, with aortic stenosis and for years with heart failure, and who is also the president of the Spanish Association of Heart Valve Carriers and Anticoagulated (AEPOVAC).
UICAR
Heart problems are a leading cause of death worldwide, making access to top cardiologists in Madrid essential for the prevention and treatment of heart disease. At UICAR, you'll find a wide range of cardiology specialists, but only the very best stand out for their excellence in the diagnosis , treatment, and prevention of heart disease.