Cardiac failure results in a deterioration of the heart function, a relatively low level of physical resistance and immunity, and a greater vulnerability to various infections, which in turn further increases the heart burden and leads to a deterioration of the heart failure. Prevention of infection is therefore a critical day-to-day task for people with heart failure, and the following are effective prevention measures.
First, the focus on hygiene is the basis for preventing infection. Patients with heart failure should maintain good hygiene habits, be diligent in washing their hands, use soap and mobile water, and carefully wash all parts of their hands, in accordance with the correct method of hand washing, especially after exposure to public goods, coughing or sneezing and before eating. Take a good bath, change clothes and bedding regularly, keep the skin clean and dry, and reduce opportunities for bacteria. It is also important not to lose sight of the fact that oral clean-up is carried out by brushing teeth early and late every day, using fresh water or mouthwashing after meals to prevent oral infections, which can cause whole-body infections and increase the heart burden.
Second, improve respiratory protection. During periods of high respiratory infections, such as winter springs, minimum access to populated, air-traffic public places such as malls, supermarkets, cinemas, etc. If it is necessary to go out, it is recommended to wear a mask, which can be effective in stopping a disease in the air and reducing the risk of infection. Keep indoor air fresh, often open windows, so that fresh air can enter the room, dilute and excrete potential bacteria, but be careful not to blow directly and prevent cooling. Air cleaners or humidifiers can be used to regulate indoor air moisture and quality, which is generally appropriate at 40 – 60%. In addition, influenza and pneumonia vaccinations are important means of preventing respiratory infections. Influenza vaccine can be effective in preventing influenza virus infection, pneumonia vaccine can reduce the risk of pneumonia, and patients with heart failure should be vaccinated on time and on the advice of a doctor.
A reasonable mix of dietary nutrition is also crucial for increasing immunity and preventing infection. Patients should ensure sufficient protein intake, such as skinny meat, fish, eggs, beans, dairy products, etc., which is an important material basis for body restoration and the maintenance of immune functions. More fresh vegetables and fruits, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, contribute to increasing the body ‘ s resilience. For example, vitamin C is resistant to oxidation, which enhances the activity of white cells and improves the body ‘ s resistance to infection; vitamin A protects respiratory mucous membranes and reduces the incidence of respiratory infections. At the same time, care should be taken to balance and diversify the diet, to avoid food selection and preference, to control the intake of salt and water, to follow the dietary principles of patients with cardiac failure and to prevent the burden of the heart from being increased by inadequate diet.
Appropriate exercise enhances health and improves immunity, but special care is required in the movement of patients with heart failure. Depending on his/her condition and state of health, the appropriate mode of movement and strength shall be chosen under the direction of a doctor. In general, more decompressive sports such as walking, Tai Chi, yoga, etc. may be chosen for a period of less than 20 – 30 minutes at a time and 3-5 times a week. In the course of the exercise, care should be taken to observe the physical reaction of the person, such as the appearance of symptoms such as panic, short-temporal and breast discomfort, and the exercise should be stopped immediately and medical attention should be provided in a timely manner. Appropriate exercise promotes blood circulation, enhances CPR function and enhances physical resistance, but it must not be excessive, so that it is not counterproductive.
Maintaining a good mental state is equally important for preventing infection. Long-term stress and anxiety and depression can affect the immune function of the body and make patients more vulnerable to infection. Cardiac failure patients should learn to adapt their mentalities and be active in the face of disease, so as to ease their emotional stress and ease their emotions by communicating with their families and friends, participating in social events, and developing hobbyes. For example, people who like music can listen to the music, relax, and people who like to paint can express their feelings and divert attention. At the same time, patients ‘ families should give them adequate care, support and encouragement to build their confidence in overcoming the disease.
In addition, regular review is an important part of preventing infection. Cardiac failure patients should, at the doctor ‘ s request, be reviewed regularly at the hospital, including the examination of cardiac function, blood protocol, liver and kidney function, etc. Through regular reviews, doctors are able to keep abreast of changes in the patient ‘ s condition, adjust treatment programmes, identify potential risk of infection and take appropriate preventive measures. In the course of the review, the patient should consult a doctor in a timely manner in order to receive a timely diagnosis and treatment, if there are any symptoms or doubts.
The prevention of infection in cases of heart failure requires a multi-faceted approach and a comprehensive health defence. (b) Improve the quality of life by reducing the incidence of infection and the burden of the heart by focusing on hygiene, improving respiratory protection, a reasonable diet, appropriate exercise, maintaining a good mind and regular review, so as to effectively control the development of heart failure.
