By changing your lifestyle you may be able to stop the disease progressing and relieve your symptoms.

What you can do yourself

• Eat a low-salt diet (salt retains water in the body, making the heart pump harder).
• Watch your fluid intake: drink about 2 litres a day.
• Take regular exercise: sport was once forbidden in heart failure, but studies have since shown that regular exercise relieves the long-term burden on your heart. But be sure to talk to your doctor before you start.
• Watch your weight: weigh yourself daily. If you put on more than 1–2 kg over a few days, see your doctor. A sudden increase in weight can be a sign of increased fluid retention.
• Watch your alcohol consumption: alcohol is the main cause of dilated cardiomyopathy (it damages the heart muscle cells).
• Keep to a healthy diet, with as little fat as possible and plenty of fruit and vegetables.
• If you are overweight, try to lose weight. Even a few kilograms means less strain on your heart.
• Try to stop smoking – it’s never too late!
• Take your prescription medicines regularly – even when you’re feeling well.
• Get yourself vaccinated against flu and pneumococcus.
• Note down any problems, such as having to pass water frequently at night, to make sure you mention them on your next visit to the doctor.