St. Francis heart clinic marks first year

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to the rest of the body. As the heart’s pumping becomes less effective, blood may back up in other areas of the body.Fluid may build up in the lungs, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and the arms and legs, causing multiple systems failure. There are three major symptoms: shortness of breath with exertion and while lying flat, swelling to the lower extremities and weight gain. Individuals experiencing symptoms should contact their primary care physician or cardiologist. Hospital admission can be prevented by addressing symptoms early. The Congestive Heart Failure Program at St. Francis, which opened just over a year ago, is designed to complement care from a cardiologist. The program is staffed with a cardiologist, a nurse practitioner and a case manager. In the program, physicians look to address proper diagnosis, education on proper diet, medications, exercise and weight measurement. Patients see the same clinicians each visit promoting a more personal relationship in the management of their disease. Patients with questions about the CHF program or to make an appointment can call (609) 599-5668.