Daily Weight Monitoring

Retaining fluid is the cause of most of the symptoms of heart failure and can lead to hospitalization. The easiest way to determine if you are starting to retain fluid is to monitor your body weight by weighing yourself every day.

The most accurate way to weigh yourself is to do it first thing in the morning after you have urinated and with the same amount of clothing on. Be sure to write it down, as you will want to watch for gradual weight gain over time. Use a calendar or weight log to record your daily weight and be sure to review your log with your doctor during office appointments.

You will need to work with your doctor to determine your 'dry weight' or weight when you are not retaining any fluid. Staying within 1-3 pounds of this weight gives you the best opportunity to limit your symptoms of heart failure and reduce the work of your heart. It is much easier to remove a couple of pounds of extra water weight with medication (diuretic) than it is to remove 5 or more pounds. Develop a plan with your doctor to treat weight gain related to fluid retention. The following is an example of a weight plan: 

1. Weigh yourself at about the same time every day (after you urinate) 
2. Call the doctor if: 

• Your weight goes up by 2-3 pounds over 1-2 days 
• Your weight goes up by 5 pounds in a week 
• You have more problems with swelling or bloating 
• You have any problems breathing