[Becky]

Dear Terri

Ain't Cancerland something else! You should call or email your onc to see if you can try CoQ 10 as a supplement. It does have bonefide results to improve heart function (by trial where 390 mg per day were taken).

If your onc says yes (since you aren't on chemo right now as it is an antioxidant (and Herceptin is immunotherapy not chemotherapy)) then you should slowly work your way up to about 400mg per day. Start with 50mg with breakfast for a few days. Then use 50 mg with breakfast and lunch for a few days. Then 50mg for breakfast, lunch and dinner. After that, use 100mg at breakfast but 50 mg for lunch and dinner. I think you get the picture - until you are at 400 mg per day (divided throughout the day as 150 mg for breakfast and lunch and 100 mg for dinner). It really does help some people alot.

Also, try to take the smallest or walks and try to build up alittle endurance. Go a couple of houses down the block and back. After a couple of days, add a few more houses and try to pick up the mileage and pace. It really helps the heart too.

Try not to worry too much about anything else. Herceptin can cause puffy eyes but the ankle could be diminishing heart function - but you are above 50 so that is a normal reading.

You can improve this. Always ask your medical team since you will be adding supplements (maybe).

I am thinking about you and giving you a huge cyber hug.