How is congestive heart failure managed in patients?

Hi doctor,

My father is 67 years old. His medical history includes pneumonia several years ago, leg cramps that occur about once every two weeks (which vitamin B helps alleviate), and minor daily coughing of uncertain cause. He has never smoked and does not consume alcohol. Three and a half weeks ago, he went to the emergency room due to severe chest pain. His EKG (electrocardiogram) showed no significant concerns, the chest X-ray was clear, and the CT (computed tomography) scan of the chest was normal, along with all laboratory tests. He was given Morphine and Nitroglycerin, which resolved his chest pain.

He was sent home the same night with a prescription for Nitroglycerin and an appointment to see a cardiologist. He saw the cardiologist one and a half weeks ago. The cardiologist indicated that his EKG revealed atrial fibrillation (AFib) and expressed concern regarding the CT scan of the chest due to the poor timing of filming in relation to the contrast injection. He prescribed Diltiazem, Apixaban, and Nitroglycerin as needed (PRN). Additionally, he placed my father on a cardiac monitor at home and scheduled a follow-up appointment in two weeks.

After the cardiologist appointment, my father developed a severe dry, hacking cough that worsens each day, making it difficult for him to sleep. He can only manage to sleep in a chair intermittently. Strangely, when he lies down, the cough subsides but resumes immediately upon sitting up or walking around.

I finally convinced him to call the cardiologist about his persistent and severe cough since starting the new medications. We met with the cardiologist, who reviewed the heart monitor readings. As the cough persisted, a chest X-ray was ordered, which showed no signs of pneumonia, but fluid was found around his heart. Consequently, the cardiologist added Digoxin, Furosemide, and Potassium to his regimen, alongside Diltiazem, Apixaban, and Nitroglycerin PRN. He was instructed to wear the monitor for a longer period and given a follow-up appointment in three weeks.

Now, on the third day of his new medication, there has been no improvement in his cough or ability to sleep; in fact, his symptoms have worsened. He has never had heart issues before. I need your help with my father's cardiac illness and diagnosis.

Please assist us.