Even though medical care is very important in treating dilated cardiomyopathy, the following self-care recommendations are also important.

• Avoid drinking alcohol. Long-term overuse of alcohol may increase the risk of developing cardiomyopathy in some people.
• Restrict salt (sodium) in your diet. The body attempts to compensate for heart failure by retaining salt and water. This leads to fluid buildup and swelling. Limit salt to less than 2,300 mg a day. Many processed foods are high in sodium and should be avoided. Examples of high-sodium processed foods to avoid include potato chips, pretzels, salted nuts, processed meats and cheeses, pizza, canned soups, canned vegetables, olives, fast foods, and frozen dinners (unless labeled as low-sodium). Eat fresh fruits and vegetables in place of canned foods.

  Heart failure: Eating less salt

• Avoid drinking too much water, to help control fluid retention. Talk to your doctor about how much fluid is safe for your specific condition.

  Heart failure: Watching your fluids

• Weigh yourself daily. If fluid begins to build up rapidly, you will notice a sudden weight gain. Your doctor may tell you how much weight to watch for. But in general, call your doctor if you gain 3lb or more in 2 to 3 days.

  Avoiding triggers for sudden heart failure

• Exercise. Your health professional will tell you the kind of physical activity you can safely do. Most people are encouraged to walk or ride bikes or do some other kind of exercise, if their condition allows it.

Pregnancy can be dangerous for people with dilated cardiomyopathy. If you have dilated cardiomyopathy and are considering becoming pregnant, talk to your health professional.

For more information on home treatment, see the topic Heart Failure.