Patient/caregiver was instructed regarding life-style measures to be observed in individuals with history of cardiomyopathy as follows:
- Observe compliance with recommendations for heart healthy diet and fluid volume intake limitations, if any. Limit sodium intake to no more than 2 grams or 2000 mg per day. Make healthy food choices that are low in saturated and trans fats.
- Individuals with history of co-existing diabetes must observe compliance with dietary intake and calorie recommendations made. Observe compliance with close watch on blood sugars and medications intake, as ordered. Report to your physician regarding consistent blood sugar readings, out of parameters defined.
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of clot and emboli formation, such as, acute dry cough, sudden chest pain with exacerbation of shortness of breath, acute calf pain with swelling of the lower limb, and dizziness. Observe compliance with recommendations for smoking cessation, if applicable. Observe compliance with intake of blood thinner and anticoagulant medications, if any ordered. Observe compliance with periodical lab draws, as ordered, for any changes to be made in the dose of anticoagulant medications.
