Overview
When you have heart failure, it's important to watch for changes in your weight. A sudden weight gain can mean that more fluid is building up and your heart failure is getting worse.
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Weigh yourself at the same time each day.
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The best time is in the morning after you go to the bathroom but before you eat or drink anything.
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Use the same scale every time.
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Keep it on a hard, flat surface.
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Wear the same thing every time you weigh yourself.
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Or always wear nothing.
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Record your weight.
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Try writing it in a calendar.
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Share your weight record with your doctor.
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It can help show how you're doing and what things may trigger a weight gain.
Call your doctor if you notice a sudden weight gain, such as 2 to 3 pounds in a day or 5 pounds in a week. Your doctor may suggest a different amount.
Credits
Current as of: September 7, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Rakesh K. Pai MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
George Philippides MD - Cardiology