Heart Function Clinic

Heart Failure

Overview

A condition where the heart does not pump well. Your heart has not actually “failed” or stopped working, it is not working as well as it should. Heart attack, cardiac arrest and heart failure are not the same thing.

Congestive heart failure is a condition of the heart where it is unable to pump enough blood to meet the demands of the body. Congestive heart failure is the most frequent reason for medical admission to the hospital and 47% of patient’s over the age of 65 are readmitted within one month of hospital discharge with a diagnosis of heart failure.

When to call us

• weight increase of 2 lbs. overnight, or 5 lbs. in a week
• more lower leg/abdomen swelling
• increase shortness of breath more than your normal
• increased dizziness or fatigue compared to your normal

Monday – Friday, 8am to 4pm (705) 740-2043 x252. Please leave a message and we will get back to you within 24 business hours.

When to go to the hospital

• extreme shortness of breath
• pain/pressure in chest
• fainting
• confusion

Atrial Fibrillation

Overview

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a rapid and irregular heartbeat due to the electrical disturbance of the heart. Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia, affecting the two small upper chambers (atria) of the heart.

Clinical Goals

The aim of the clinic is to manage your heart function care on an outpatient basis and to reduce emergency visits and hospital admissions. A team approach will include your cardiologist and heart function nurse.

Your medicines will be adjusted by the cardiologist as required to best manage your care. The team will monitor your health status through physical assessment and ongoing teaching regarding medications, fluid and salt management, and self monitoring signs and symptoms of fluid overload.

Preparing for your appointment

Please bring all medications that you are currently taking to each clinic appointment. At your first visit, please provide the following information: family physician name, phone and faxes numbers; Pharmacy name, phone and fax numbers; Emergency contact information;  Alternative contact information for booking up-coming appointments.

Educational Resources

Additional information can be found on these websites.

Canada’s Food Guide: https://food-guide.canada.ca/en/

Heart Failure Matters: https://www.heartfailurematters.org/

Heart Failure Patient Education Site: www.tedrogersheartfunction.ca

Heart and Stroke Foundation: https://www.heartandstroke.ca/

Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research: UHN Patient and Family Education: www.uhnpatienteducation.ca