An early warning signal that the heart is not able to pump effectively, is rapid weight gain. This indicates that the body is retaining fluid. Everyone who has heart failure needs to weigh themselves, regularly.

Purchasing a scale that is easily readable is a crucial step in maintaining your health. Get into the habit of weighing yourself each morning when you get up after emptying your bladder. You can have light pajamas on or no clothes as long as you do it the same way every day. Write it down on a calendar kept in the bathroom next to the scale.

Weight gains of 3 pounds in 2 days or 3-5 pounds in 5 days, usually indicates extra fluid is accumulating and your medications may need adjusting. Check in with your health care provider before things get out of hand and emergency measures are necessary.

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