Heart failure and other cardiac disorders are hot areas of research. With so many new drugs and emergent technologies becoming available, it is critical that you educate yourself on what is available to you. Building a basic knowledge of the types of drugs and treatments that are now used as well as how they work will facilitate your learning process.

Outpatient Treatments

Your doctor can prescribe several treatments for heart failure that do not require hospitalization. These treatments include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, vasodilators, beta-blockers, digitalis, and anticoagulants.

Inpatient Treatment

In cases of advanced heart failure, your doctor may choose to keep you in the hospital for close supervision. He or she may prescribe intravenous (IV) medications since some medications are not active when taken orally.

Compliance

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Don’t alter the dosage of your medications or stop any medication suddenly. Keep follow-up appointments and inform your doctor of any new symptoms.

Procedures and Surgeries

Your doctor may suggest surgical treatment for your heart failure. Many of the options available are relatively non-invasive procedures. When called for, however, there are many more aggressive surgeries that can be used. Possible options are angioplasty, coronary bypass surgery, valve surgery, or heart transplantation.