If you have congestive heart failure (CHF), it means that your heart isn’t strong enough to pump blood as well as it should through your body. There are two types of heart failure. Sometimes the heart is unable to fill itself up completely with blood before pumping the blood back out. This can cause fluid to pool in the legs, feet, ankles, and sometimes the abdomen or lungs. In the other type of heart failure, the heart is unable to empty itself of blood. When this happens, blood coming to the heart gets backed up, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs.

Mild forms of CHF may have little effect on a person’s life. But people with more serious cases have a tough time doing even simple tasks. They may often feel fatigued or have trouble breathing. They may suffer from swelling in the legs or feet.

Fortunately, there is hope for people with CHF. Early treatment may slow the progression of the disease, reduce symptoms, and help prevent hospital stays. And lifestyle choices can make a big difference, too. If you have CHF, here’s some practical advice to help you live better, longer.