Treatment for congestive heart failure depends on the condition
causing the heart to fail. Treatments can include heart transplant,
valve replacement, bypass surgery, medications and lifestyle
changes. Pacemakers, defibrillators and implanted "assist pumps"
may also be utilized.
Supportive care for congestive heart failure includes treatment
of edema and mitigation of sleep apnea, thyroid problems or anemia.
Lifestyle changes are encouraged. Patients should stop smoking,
avoid second-hand smoke, limit or eliminate caffeine and alcohol,
achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, manage stress, and
exercise as recommended by the attending physician.