Your body holds onto extra fluid when you have heart failure. So you may put on some weight. When you are treated for heart failure you should lose this weight as you get rid of the excess water in your body.

Your doctor may ask you to weigh yourself every day or every couple of days. This can be a good way of telling how well your treatments are working.

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 2008. All rights reserved.