Fatigue is a common symptom of heart failure. Energy conservation is about maintaining a healthy balance between activity and rest, in order to keep up your energy level. To help you learn how to use your energy wisely, here are some useful strategies.
Plan Ahead
- Plan a schedule for the day and week ahead.
- Avoid trying to do all your chores in one day and rushing around.
- Plan shopping trips during times when there are fewer crowds or long lines.
- Simplify meal planning and stock your pantry with key ingredients for favourite recipes.
- Get extra rest the day before attending a celebration or social event.
- Avoid doing activities in extreme temperatures, such as very cold or hot weather, as this may cause you to feel more tired.
Performing Daily Activities
- Break up larger activities into smaller parts and rest in between.
- With grooming, dressing or putting on shoes, sit in a chair rather than standing. Sitting helps to give your heart a rest.
- Avoid standing for long periods of time.
- Be aware of your body posture as poor posture can cause you to feel tired. Sit in a well-supported chair and avoid bending over when working at a desk.
- If you have stairs in your home, organize your activities so you don’t have to climb stairs several times each day.
- Learn to breathe evenly during activity and avoid holding your breath.
- Use equipment such as a walking device.
- Develop good sleep habits. If you nap for too long during the day you may not be able to sleep well at night. Avoiding eating before bed.
Learn to Listen to your Body
- Recognize when you are starting to feel fatigued and take a break or short nap.
- Some people feel more energetic in the morning compared to the afternoon. Determine your best time of day to plan activities.