losing weight/HF
I am so worried. I am losing muscle mass, especially on my arms. I understand it's one of the results of HF. On the other hand, I did change my diet and started eating healthy. I am so scared because it cant be reversed and adding more calories will not help.
Have anybody had a problem with losing muscle mass? My doctor not telling me anything and that's what's worrying me. My cardiologist simply told me that I need to eat some fat. My regular doctor, well, I want to change doctors and I live in a small town, not even a hospital. Only a clinic and I would have to travel over 30 miles to see a new doctor. I am so scared, it has me crying. Please respond
Hi. Thank you for your post. I am sorry that you are experiencing weight loss with your heart failure. I do believe that you are not the only one here in this community with this problem. I look forward to hearing what others who are experiencing this have to say. In the meantime, I am wondering if you might benefit by seeing a dietitian. They are the experts when it comes to diet, and may be able to recommend something specific to you that may help you feel better. Perhaps this would be something to discuss with your physician. What do you think? John. heart-failure.net community moderator. I have been having the same issue losing muscle. I informed my Cardiologist and he responded with its because I don’t go to the gym. He assumed I didn’t go but I do go. I feel upset with his response because I have read others with heart failure are experiencing the same issue.
I have had terrible weakness in my arms with heart failure. My primary care physician said to take vitamin B12 and within a few days, my weakness is so much better. My arms look better as well after being on B12 for months now. You can buy yourself some hand weights and sit on couch and build up your muscles? My cardiologist recommends any sort of exercise, so do what you can and not worry about the rest. We have enough to worry about. I wish you well.
Great suggestions, @Gracie. Thank you so much for sharing! -Jessica, Team Member
Change your doctor. Talk to your primary care doctor and get a referral. My cardiologist started me on B12 and potassium supplement when I had my heart attack. Walk somewhere you feel safe and use hand weights. Please don't cry, pray!!!
