Weight & Fluid

Daily weight can help you notice changes that may matter for heart and kidney health. Your healthcare professional may give you a personal weight-change threshold and action plan.

Weigh the right way

Weigh at the same time each morning, after using the bathroom.
Use the same scale, wearing similar clothing.
Write the number down every day, even if it hasn't changed.

Changes to report

Your healthcare professional may ask you to watch for a specific amount of weight gain. Follow the threshold and instructions in your personal care plan.

New or worsening swelling in your feet, ankles, legs, or belly.
New or worsening shortness of breath or trouble lying flat.
A rapid or unexpected weight change, especially when it occurs with swelling or breathing changes.

Do not change your fluid intake, diuretic (water pill), or other medication based only on a weight change unless your healthcare professional has given you specific instructions.

Trusted public-health sources

AHA: Managing Heart Failure Symptoms

What to track at home

Daily weightRecord your weight every day on the check-in to catch fluid changes early.

SwellingNote new or worse swelling in your symptoms.

Record today's check-in