If you are coping with, or are at risk of congestive heart failure, try the following :
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to be beneficial for heart health by re-energizing the mitochondria in the heart cells, which is where energy metabolism occurs. This nutrient is very important for the heart cells of patients with heart failure. CoQ10 may also help lower blood pressure.
- L-Carnitine. This amino acid is essential for energy metabolism of the heart muscle.
- Cordyceps. This medicinal mushroom is a good energy booster and can improve the efficiency of the lungs and heart.
- Hawthorne. This herb may increase heart-muscle strength and also act as a mild diuretic.
- Be sure to discuss the use of any supplement with your doctor. Your prescription drug dosages may need to be adjusted as these other measures take effect.
Symptoms of Heart Failure
· Cough
· Decreased alertness or concentration
· Decreased urine production
· Difficulty sleeping
· Fatigue, weakness, faintness
· Irregular or rapid pulse
· Loss of appetite, indigestion
· Nausea and vomiting
· Neck veins that stick out
· Need to urinate at night
· Sensation of feeling the heart beat (palpitations)
· Shortness of breath with activity, or after lying down for a while
· Swelling of the abdomen
· Swelling of feet and ankles
· Weight gain
Infants may sweat during feeding (or other activity).
Some patients with heart failure have no symptoms. In these people, the symptoms may develop only with these conditions :
· Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
· Anemia
· Hyperthyroidism
· Infections with high fever
· Kidney disease
