What to Expect in the First Year After a Heart Failure Diagnosis

Now that you have experienced heart failure, you are concerned about what is in store for you. The term "heart failure" sounds dangerous but it doesn't mean your heart has stopped working completely.  

The first year after your diagnosis is important as it sets the tone for how things will be for you in the long term. With the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular follow-ups, many people live active and meaningful lives. Here’s what you can expect in the first year of living with heart failure: 

Understanding Your Diagnosis & Initial Outlook 

Heart failure can be classified into two main types: 

• HFrEF (Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction) – the heart muscle is weakened and doesn’t pump efficiently. 
• HFpEF (Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction) – the heart pumps normally but is too stiff to fill properly. 

Heart failure also has four stages (A to D), with A being the earliest (risk factors only) and D the most severe. 

Difference between Heart Attack and Heart Failure 

What to Expect at Your First Clinic Visits & Tests 

Your initial appointments will involve: 

• Echocardiogram (ECHO) – To check how well your heart is pumping. 
• Blood tests – especially BNP or NT-proBNP, which measure heart strain. 
• ECG – to check for abnormal rhythms. 
• X-rays – to assess fluid in lungs or heart size. 

These tests help doctors confirm the diagnosis and determine how severe it is. You can expect routine retests every 3–6 months depending on your symptoms. 

Starting Treatment: Medications & Devices 

The cardiologist will prescribe you a combination of medicines for the treatment. Some of the most prescribed medicines are: 

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs – to relax blood vessels. 
• Beta-blockers – to reduce heart strain. 
• Diuretics – to help your body get rid of excess fluid. 
• SGLT2 inhibitors – newer drugs shown to improve heart failure outcomes. 

In some cases, devices like implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are recommended. 

Disclaimer: These medicines are not meant to be taken without a prescription. Make sure to consult your doctor for any change in your medication. 

Lifestyle Changes & Daily Habits 

Medicines can help you recover but they have side effects in the long-term. Hence it is best to keep it at a minimum and slowly eliminate it through healthy daily habits. Here are a few lifestyle changes you can adopt: 

• Low-sodium diet (typically <2g/day). 
• Fluid restrictions (1.5–2 liters/day). 
• Safe physical activity like walking or light resistance exercises. 

Regular Follow-Ups & Staying on Track 

In the first year of your heart failure diagnosis, doctors are extra careful about your health. They prescribe different medications to check which one works the best for you. They are also: 

• Monitoring kidney function and blood pressure. 
• Check for symptoms like dizziness or fatigue. 

Managing Setbacks & Readmissions 

About 1 in 4 patients are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of a heart failure-related stay. The most common causes include: 

• Eating too much salt. 
• Not taking prescribed medicines. 
• New infections. 
• Stress or overexertion. 

You must not neglect the early warning signs like breathlessness at rest, rapid weight gain, or confusion. Instead, you must immediately check-up with your doctor for what to do next.  

When Basic Treatment Isn’t Enough 

If your heart failure is progressing even after optimal treatment, your doctor might suggest some alternatives like: 

• Heart transplant (for eligible younger patients). 
• Left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) – mechanical pumps used as a bridge to transplant or as long-term support. 

What Are the Costs of Heart Failure Treatment? 

Medical treatments are expensive, and it is higher when you are dealing with a sensitive organ. The generic versions of the medicines are affordable but branded SGLT2 inhibitors or sacubitril/valsartan are costly. 

Other than that, BP monitors usually range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 4,000 and if you are hospitalized, it can cost you from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 1.5 Lakhs. 

If you have health insurance, then most of your medications and procedures are covered. However, make sure to verify the terms and conditions before you claim your health insurance. 

Long-Term Outlook: What the First-Year Data Tells Us 

The first year is critical. With treatment and follow-up, many people improve. Studies show: 

• Patients who stick to treatment plans have 30–50% fewer hospitalizations. 
• First-year survival rates vary by age and severity ranging from 70% to 90% for patients who are closely monitored and follow the treatment. 

So, you see, your long-term outcome is not dependent on medications. You must also focus on self-care, diet, regular activity, and follow-ups. 

Conclusion 

Heart failure might be traumatic for you, but it is not the end yet. The first year after diagnosis is full of learning, adjusting to medications and lifestyle changes, and rebuilding.  

When you have the right care and support, you will live an active and happy life. Hence, it is important to ask questions, follow your action plan, and surround yourself with support. Get in touch with experienced cardiologists at Hinduja Hospital, Mahim, Mumbai to get expert advice and ensure a healthier and heartier life ahead. 

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) 

Can you recover completely from heart failure? 

Heart failure can’t be cured, but it can be managed effectively. It’s not the same as a heart attack, though the two are often related. Your cardiologist will explain your specific type, stage, and treatment outlook. 

Can I drink alcohol or coffee after heart failure? 

One can have alcohol after heart failure, but it should be limited. Having coffee is also acceptable only if it is in limited quantities. 

Can I still work after heart failure? 

Many people return to work with proper planning. A dietitian can help you make practical, sustainable dietary changes and suggest your lifestyle changes as well. 

Can I live a normal life after heart failure? 

If you get the right care and treatment, you can still enjoy life with congestive heart failure. You can care for yourself by taking medicines at the right time and being active.  

How can I strengthen my heart after heart failure? 

Go for low-intensity or moderate-intensity aerobic activities like walking or swimming. Start slowly and make your workouts longer and more difficult over time.