Why should people with congestive heart failure drink less fluid?

In summary, people with congestive heart failure (CHF) are advised to limit their fluid intake to reduce the risk of edema and alleviate strain on the heart. Despite the common belief that drinking 8 cups of water a day is healthy, this does not apply to those with CHF as excess fluid can overwhelm the effects of diuretics. While some sources list the workload of the heart as a reason for restricting fluid intake, the main goal is to reduce the strain on the kidneys and ultimately the heart.
  • #1
wywong
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People with congestive heart failure (CHF) are advised by doctors to restrict fluid intake. For example, while 8 cups of fluid per day is recommended for healthy individuals, people with CHF are recommended not to exceed 4 cups a day. The explanation, according to a medical student friend, is so that the blood volume is reduced, and therefore the heart doesn't have to work that hard. I am baffled by such an explanation. According to physics, the mechanical power output of the heart is given by the volume of blood passing through the heart per second times the pressure difference between the inlets and outlets of the heart. If I understand correctly, a reduced blood volume affects neither the hemoglobin concentration nor the blood pressure due to homeostasis, so a reduced blood volume shouldn't alter the heart's workload. Am I mistaken or is my friend's explanation wrong?
 
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  • #2
Reduced fluid intake in CHF is an attempt to reduce edema , particularly pulmonary edema ...

Congestive Heart Failure ... the total amount of fluid consumed must be regulated. Although many people with congestive heart failure take diuretics to aid in the elimination of excess fluid, the action of these medications can be overwhelmed by an excess intake of water and other fluids. The maxim that "drinking eight glasses of water a day is healthy" certainly does not apply to patients with congestive heart failure. In fact patients with more advanced cases of congestive heart failure are often advised to limit their total daily fluid intake from all sources to 2 quarts ...
http://providence.net/medical-services/internal.php?page=heart-failure
 
  • #3
Thanks very much. But my friend's textbook and other internet sources do list workload of the heart as one of the reasons. In the end we agree that to excrete the excess water, the kidney needs to derive more power from the blood, which causes the heart to work harder.
 

1. Why is limiting fluid intake important for people with congestive heart failure?

Limiting fluid intake is important for people with congestive heart failure because their hearts are unable to pump blood efficiently, causing a buildup of fluid in the body. Consuming too much fluid can worsen this condition and lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling, and fatigue.

2. How much fluid should someone with congestive heart failure drink per day?

The recommended daily fluid intake for someone with congestive heart failure is typically around 1.5 to 2 liters. However, this may vary depending on the severity of the condition and other individual factors. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.

3. Can drinking too much fluid cause complications for people with congestive heart failure?

Yes, drinking too much fluid can cause complications for people with congestive heart failure. It can lead to fluid overload, which puts strain on the heart and can worsen symptoms. In severe cases, it can even lead to hospitalization.

4. Are there any other reasons for limiting fluid intake besides congestive heart failure?

Yes, there are other conditions that may require limiting fluid intake, such as kidney disease, liver disease, and certain medications that can cause fluid retention. It is important to follow the recommendations of a healthcare professional to avoid any potential complications.

5. What are some tips for managing fluid intake for people with congestive heart failure?

Some tips for managing fluid intake for people with congestive heart failure include measuring and tracking fluid intake, avoiding salty and processed foods, and limiting intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. It is also important to spread out fluid intake throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once.

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