Congestive heart failure or fluid overload

[Danally]

My dad is in the hospital  again. He was there two weeks ago and they said he had fluid over load. On Thursday night he was rushed to the ER because he had a terrible cough and couldn't breathe. This time he had to be innervated and they believe he had a heart attack. The  doctors believe it was fluid over load but he claims he didn't drink a lot. He had an echo and they said his test showed his heart was not damaged and it was beating strong. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this. The doctors can't answer my questions. I am also looking for a dialysis diet menu. He seems to be eating too much potassium and this is causing a problem too. I need all the help I can get. Thanks

[okarol]

I am sorry about your dad. I hope he feels better soon.
 

[nursewratchet]

Is your Dad on Dialysis?  If so, his dry weight needs to be dropped.  If he is eating poorly, and losing weight, then his"dry weight" should be decreased.  If he stays at the same dry weight, then he will accumulate fluid.  If his potassium is high, that can be very dangerous, even fatal.  Bannanas, tomatoes, oranges, potatoes should be avoided.  Those are some of the no no's.  There are more, ask the dietician.  Also, if he is a Dialysis patient, his "bath" at the clinic can be adjusted to a lower potassium to help with that.    If he is in fact on dialysis, sounds like they are not doing a great job watching these things.  If he is not, the diet will help somewhat, and a fluid restriction possibly.  Is he on a diuretic?  That would alson help.  Good Luck, keep us posted.