New Survey Suggests Confusion, Lack of Awareness About Heart Failure Could Be Preventing Critical Early Detection and...( fatigue performing everyday tasks ...),Health

such as climbing stairs or carrying groceries, and/or rapid weight

gain/loss, one in four adults (25 percent) would wait to see if the

symptoms passed.

-- Very few -- 2 percent -- would seek immediate medical attention

(by calling 9-1-1 or going to the emergency room).

"While heart failure certainly is serious, it often can be managed. The key is being able to recognize the symptoms and to seek treatment immediately. According to these survey results, many Americans may be missing these critical steps," said Robin Trupp, PhD(c), APRN, President of AAHFN. "We hope to increase Americans' knowledge about basic heart failure information and to help heart failure patients learn how they can play a role in managing their symptoms and preventing their heart failure from getting worse."

Fight Against Heart Failure(SM) also provides information and tools to help heart failure patients learn how to better manage their condition to stay healthy and out of the hospital. The program offers free resources, including a handbook with easy-to-read information about heart failure and daily journal pages to track symptoms, sodium intake and weight, as well as a brochure on managing heart failure. At http://www.fightheartfailure.com, there is a wealth of information on heart failure, including symptoms, risk factors, and management tips. The handbook and brochure can be ordered through the web site or toll free at 1-866-626-6636.

Heart failure affects over 5 million Americans(1) and causes or contributes to more than 300,000 deaths per year(2). Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition in which a weakened or damaged heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Left untreated, heart failure can get worse, even to the point where a visit to the hospital is necessary. Symptoms of heart failure i
'/>"/>