I have heart failure and experience what you are talking about. I have more swelling in my left leg because of a graft that was taken for a heart bypass operation.First and foremost, I recommend that you ask your doctor about getting into a cardiac rehab program. They will teach you what to do. Beyond that: Talk to your doctor about it. If your weight increase by 3 lbs or more in one day - call in. NO salt - I was so bad at one point that I could not drink milk or eat bread because of the sodium content. Minimal Fluids - I was restricted to 4 cups of fluids ( including jello)per day. When you take your diuretic, lay down and elevate your legs. This increases blood flow through your kidneys and helps them remove more fluid. The fundamental problem is that your kidneys regulate the amount of fluid in your body by measuring the blood flow. If the blood flow is reduced because your heart is not pumping, they react as if you are dehydrated. Wear compression stockings. I think they are called anti-embolism stockings. They help force fluid out of your tissue so it can be eliminated. They are uncomfortable but they have saved me several trips to the emergency room. Exercise - mild walking only. If you get out of breath, you are doing too much and can make your condition worse- damaging your heart further. There are a couple of links attached that will help. Talk to your doctor very soon regarding your problem and ask about cardiac rehab. It saved my life. He/she needs to be aware of the swelling and will give you specific guidance based on your condition. If you have trouble breathing, don t fool around. Call an ambulance.