|
Hospitalization may be required until acute symptoms subside. Because the heart dysfunction is usually reversible, and because patients are usually young, all means necessary are applied to ensure survival.
Text Continues Below
This may include extreme measures such as using an aortic counterpulsation balloon, the use of immunosuppressive therapy (i.e., the type of therapy used to treat cancer or to prevent rejection of transplanted organs), or a heart transplant.
For most women, however, treatment focuses simply on relieving the symptoms. Some women's symptoms resolve on their own (spontaneously).
Medications include diuretics (water pills) to remove excess fluid, vasodilators called ACE-inhibitors to improve cardiac outflow, digitalis to strengthen cardiac outflow, and low-dose beta-blockers. A low-salt diet may be recommended. Fluid may be restricted in some cases. Activity may be restricted when symptoms develop, including nursing the baby.
Daily weighing may be recommended. A weight gain of 3 or 4 pounds or more over 1 or 2 days may indicate fluid accumulation.
If you smoke or drink alcohol, stop. These habits may make the symptoms worse.
|
.gif)
