Congestive Heart Failure Clinics

Your physician has referred you to the Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) Clinic of Peninsula Cardiology. We know that the diagnosis of congestive heart failure can be very frightening and you and your family may have many questions. Many people misunderstand what heart failure is. Heart failure does not mean that your heart has stopped or is about to stop. Heart Failure is a serious illness in which the heart does not pump blood through your body as well as it should.

Your body depends on the heart's pumping action to deliver oxygen-rich blood to all of the body's cells for nourishment and normal function. In people with heart failure, the body does not get enough blood. As a result, you may feel weak, fatigued or short of breath. Everyday activities like carrying groceries and doing yard work can become quite difficult. Heart Failure can also cause swelling and fluid buildup in your feet, legs and even your lungs. Fluid buildup in your lungs is often referred to as "congestion," which is why heart failure is sometimes called "congestive heart failure" or "CHF."

The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone! Nearly 5 million Americans are living with heart failure and 550,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Regardless of your treatment you need to follow all your doctor's recommendations and make the necessary changes in diet, exercise and lifestyle to give you the highest possible quality of life.

Congestive Heart Failure is an illness that affects how you live, however with proper medications and lifestyle changes, you can lead an active and satisfying life. At Peninsula Cardiology’s CHF clinic we will help you understand how your medications work, offer dietary and exercise counsel and explain options for treatment and follow-up. Our program is designed to optimize your treatment regimen and serve as an ongoing source of encouragement to help you stay on track. The center includes a Board Certified Cardiologist and a dedicated Registered Nurse.

When you come for your appointment we recommend you bring the following:

• A family member
• A list of questions that you may have
• A list of prescription and over-the-counter medications that you are taking

From the time you are discharged from the hospital until you are seen in the clinic, feel free to contact the clinic's nurse at 410-749-8906 extension 219 for any questions or problems. For appointment information please call the appointment secretary at extension 184. Our office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. If you need to talk to a doctor after office hours call 410-546-8720 to have the cardiologist on call paged.

Congestive Heart Failure FAQ | Request Information | Request Appointment

Cardiology Services:

Vascular Diagnostic Testing | Nuclear Diagnostic Testing | Electrophysiology | EKG | Echocardiograms