Heart failure is a condition that affects the ability to pump enough blood to meet the needs of the body. It can affect the left or right side of the heart. Patients may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the ankles or legs, chest pain, changes in appetite or weight, nausea and vomiting and sleep problems. At first, symptoms may only occur during exercise or exertion. But as the heart weakens, symptoms can occur even at rest.

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute estimates about 5 million Americans have heart failure. Every year, about 550,000 new cases are diagnosed. The condition leads to 300,000 deaths in the U.S. annually. Heart failure is more common in people over 65, African Americans and people who are overweight or have Type 2 diabetes.

Treating Heart Failure

Initial treatment for heart failure may involve diet modification, weight loss and an increase in physical activity. Smokers are advised to stop smoking.

If lifestyle interventions don't improve symptoms, medications can be prescribed to reduce fluid build-up, lower blood pressure, help eliminate excess sodium from the body, relax blood vessels and/or slow the heart rate. Patients with severe heart failure may require implantation of a mechanical heart pump or a heart transplant.

The Role of Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (also known as CoQ10 or ubiquinone) is a substance that's found in every cell of the body. The vitamin-like substance is an antioxidant and aids in the transfer and production of biochemical processes that fuel the cells. Some good food sources of CoQ10 include organ meats, beef, sardines, mackerel, soybean oil and peanuts. CoQ10 is also available in the form of a dietary supplement.

Over the past few years, scientists have found levels of CoQ10 appear to decrease with age or in response to medical problems. The exact relationship between CoQ10 levels and health isn't known. However, Decker Weiss, N.M.D., FASA, Naturopathic Cardiologist with Rockwood Natural Medicine Clinic, says lower levels of the substance may affect energy production and reduce the operating efficiency of the body's cells.

CoQ10 has been shown to significantly improve symptoms in patients with heart failure. However, Weiss says other people can also benefit from the supplement. Studies suggest it may be useful for patients with high blood pressure, Parkinson's disease, migraines, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, AIDS, asthma, thyroid disease, gum disease and some types of cancer.

CoQ10 is gaining popularity in the U.S. In 2002, researchers estimate Americans spent $200 million on CoQ10 products. Weiss cautions not all CoQ10 supplements are created equal. The substance needs fat to be absorbed into the body. He suggests looking for the supplement in chewable wafers or as a gel cap and to avoid pills or tablets. Some people experience gastrointestinal side effects when taking CoQ10. However, these symptoms tend to be mild.

If you have any questions about using CoQ10, speak with your local pharmacist or health care provider. General information about dietary supplements is available from the FDA at http://www.fda.gov/cder/info/consumer_dietary_supplements.htm.

For general information about heart failure:

American Heart Association

Heart Failure Online

Heart Failure Society of America

National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute