Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures to be observed with dilated cardiomyopathy as follows:
- Reduced output of blood from the heart, in individuals with dilated cardiomyopathy, can result in low blood pressure and hypotensive symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness. Observe compliance with log maintenance of everyday blood pressure and heart rate readings. Report to your physician regarding any consistent systolic readings below 90 and above 160. Report consistent diastolic readings below 60 and above 90. Report any consistent heart rate readings below 55 and above 100. Observe compliance with all cardiac medications, as prescribed.
- Persistent back-up of fluid from the heart chambers can lead to increased workload on the heart, progressive deterioration of heart function, further weakening of heart muscle, and heart failure. Individuals can present with swelling of the lower legs, with pitting upon applying slight pressure. Keep a close watch on the severity of pitting and report to your physician regarding any progressively increasing pedal edema. Observe compliance with intake of diuretic medications prescribed, if any.
- Fluid back-up and edema due to cardiomyopathy can contribute to acute weight gain. Observe compliance with log maintenance of everyday weight recording. Any acute increase of weight, more than 2 pounds in 2 consecutive days or more than 5 pounds in one-week duration, indicates significant fluid retention and deteriorating cardiac function, and must be reported to the physician.
