Fluid Overload:

Fluid overload can be caused by many things, including problems with the heart, kidneys, lungs or a combination of any of these vital organs. Fluid overload can also be experienced after certain surgical procedures. The leading cause of fluid overload is congestive heart failure (CHF), sometimes referred to as just heart failure (HF).

In heart failure patients, an inefficient heart can lead to the buildup of excess sodium and water which accumulates in the lungs, liver and extremities, causing shortness of breath, decreased function of vital organs and swelling of the extremities, e.g. legs.

Heart failure, as a primary and secondary condition, affects approximately five million Americans and is responsible for over 3.1 million annual hospitalizations or 11% of all hospital admissions each year. This surpasses the number of hospitalizations due to all forms of cancer and heart attacks combined! More than 500,000 new cases of heart failure are diagnosed each year. The estimated economic burden of heart failure care is in excess of $28 billion in the United States.

Clinical Evidence

For an extensive clinical evidence highlights chart, complete bibliography, or to learn more about healthcare professional training for Aquapheresis Therapy, you can visit www.chfsolutions.com or use the above links.

As part of the 2006 American College of Cardiology (ACC) 55th Scientific Session Conference, the complete multimedia UNLOAD Late Breaking Clinical Trial presentation is available online.

Click here to go to the ACC website and view it in its entirety. It's listed under Lectures and entitled, "Ultrafiltration Versus Intravenous Diuretics for Patients Hospitalized for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (UNLOAD)"