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Heart failure

Questions to ask your doctor

If you've been diagnosed with heart failure, you may want to talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask:

Why did I get heart failure?
Will I have a heart attack?
Will I get better?
What's the best treatment for me?
Can I take beta-blockers? (Not everyone can take them.)
Should I be on an ACE inhibitor?
Will I need to have treatment for the rest of my life?
What are the side effects of treatment? How can I deal with them?
Will I need surgery?
Do I have to stop any activities, such as playing tennis or swimming?
Can I still have sex?
Should I change my diet? If so, what should I eat? What should I avoid eating?
Is it safe for me to drive?

If you smoke, you may want to ask your doctor:

Will it help if I stop smoking?
Who can help me quit smoking?
What treatments are available to help me quit?
Is there a local support group I can join to help me quit?

This information was last updated on Jul 25, 2008

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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