Identification and Management Strategies for Ten Common Symptoms in Home-Based Care of Stable Chronic Heart Failure

Chronic heart failure (CHF) represents the terminal stage of various cardiac diseases and is characterized by high prevalence, high rehospitalization rates and high mortality. Home-based management of patients in the stable phase of CHF is essential for slowing disease progression, reducing rehospitalization risk and improving quality of life. Based on domestic and international heart failure management guidelines, expert consensus documents and specialty nursing practice, this paper summarizes and systematically discusses ten key symptoms that require attention in home-based management of stable CHF, including dyspnea, rapid weight gain, lower-extremity or generalized edema, fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance, nocturnal cough and pink frothy sputum, palpitations and arrhythmias, chest pain or discomfort, decreased appetite and gastrointestinal symptoms, dizziness, blackout and syncope, and mood disorders. Clinical significance, home monitoring methods, coping strategies and indications for medical consultation are addressed for each symptom. Overall strategies including symptom diaries, standardized medication, diet and fluid management, moderate exercise, trigger prevention, tiered follow-up systems and caregiver training are also proposed. Recognition of these warning symptoms may facilitate early detection, early intervention and early management, providing a reference for a patient–family–community–hospital integrated management model. It should be noted that this "top ten" framework is derived from a synthesis of guidelines and clinical experience, and its relative weighting and applicability warrant further research; specific thresholds, dosages and frequencies mentioned herein are general principles, and patients should follow individualized advice from their physicians.