Weigh Yourself Daily
A weight gain may mean that your body is retaining fluid.
Weigh yourself every morning after urinating, before dressing, and before eating breakfast each morning. Write it down.
- Record your weight every day so you have a weight diary to report to your doctor or nurse.
- Call your doctor if your weight increases by 2 or more pounds in 1 or 2 days or by more than 5 pounds in 1 week.
- Call your doctor if you notice swelling in your feet, legs, or abdomen (bloating).
- Limit the sodium (salt) in your diet to prevent fluid build-up and weight gain.
Writing down and reporting weight gains can help you and your doctor better control your heart failure by adjusting your medicines. This may keep you out of the hospital and help you to live a fuller life.
Daily Weight Chart
Please weigh yourself each morning after urinating, before breakfast, and wearing the same amount of clothing.
Name:____________________________________________________________
| Date: | Weight: | Comparison to day before: |
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The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 04/01/2013
Copyright © 03/29/2013 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#5935
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