Can patients with heart failure engage in physical labor?

In general, heart failure refers to the condition in which the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs. Whether patients with heart failure can engage in physical labor depends on the severity of their condition. Mild heart failure has limited impact on the body, and patients may perform moderate physical activities. However, for those with moderate to severe heart failure, symptoms are more serious, and physical labor is generally not recommended. The specific analysis is as follows:

Symptoms of mild heart failure are relatively minor. Patients may experience only slight shortness of breath and reduced exercise tolerance, with no significant abnormalities yet evident in cardiac structure or function. At this stage, patients can engage in moderate physical labor, provided they control the intensity and duration of activity and avoid overexertion, which may help promote recovery of heart function.

In patients with moderate to severe heart failure, heart function is significantly impaired. Symptoms commonly include palpitations, confusion, and persistent shortness of breath, substantially affecting daily life. Engaging in physical labor under these conditions may increase the workload on the heart and elevate myocardial oxygen consumption, potentially worsening the condition. Therefore, such patients should prioritize rest and avoid physical labor.

During treatment and recovery, patients are advised to strictly follow their doctor’s instructions regarding medication, maintain healthy eating habits, and reduce intake of high-salt and high-fat foods, all of which contribute to better recovery.