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Which symptoms of heart disease need immediate action?

Which Symptoms Of Heart Disease Need Immediate Action?

Introduction

Awareness of the common symptoms typically experienced before or during a heart attack is relatively high. However, many people still remain unaware of the symptoms of heart disease that require urgent action and intervention. For instance, pain in the chest, difficulty breathing, losing consciousness, and radiating pain are all indications of an urgent need for action. Let us look at some of the symptoms of other related heart diseases and conditions.

What Are The Sign And Symptoms Of Rheumatic Heart Disease?

This is a chronic condition arising after a complication of rheumatic fever, due to untreated or improperly managed strep throat infections. This condition mainly afflicts the valves of the heart, resulting in damage to the heart’s valves and affecting its function. Common symptoms of heart disease belonging to this category include:

  1. Extreme tiredness and weakness – even when there is very less physical activity.
  2. Difficulty breathing – when exercising or while resting.  
  3. Pain or discomfort in the chest – experienced like a tightening sensation or excessive pressure in the chest.
  4. Swelling – in the legs, or the ankles. 
  5. Irregular heartbeats – felt like a pounding sensation or rapid and fluttering heartbeats.
  6. Fainting – due to poor blood circulation and valve obstruction.
  7. Fever and pain in the joints – is experienced when rheumatic fever is still active.
  8. Coughing up blood – may be observed when cough is persistent.
  9. Heart murmurs – observed during examination with stethoscope.

What Are The Uncommon Symptoms Of Congenital Heart Disease?

This refers to structural defects in the heart from birth. Most symptoms of heart disease of this category are relatively common, such as bluish appearance of skin, fast paced breathing, and lesser than desired growth. However, certain subtle symptoms may not be noticed or may be wrongly understood, resulting in possible delayed treatment. Here are some of the uncommon symptoms that you need to be on the look-out:

  1. Repeated bouts of headache – may be experienced as a result of irregular blood flow or lower oxygen levels.
  2. Clubbing of fingers – as a result of long term deficit in oxygen, the fingertips and toes may appear swollen or round.
  3. Fatigue – may be experienced even when partaking in routine activities. This is abnormal, and due to lesser oxygenated blood in the muscles.
  4. Fainting – may be temporary in nature, especially during physical activity. This is as a result of poor circulation or arrhythmias attributed to structural defects.
  5. Feeding challenges – may be encountered in infants, causing lesser than required weight gain.
  6. Gastrointestinal problems – due to lesser blood flow in the digestive system can result in possible nausea, and pain in the abdomen. 
  7. Difficulty in focusing – may be observed in patients with CHD. This could be memory issues, confusion, or challenges in concentrating. 
  8. Sweating – may be profuse and without any reason, especially during feeding or mild activity.  
  9. frequent infections – may be experienced as a result of abnormal blood flow in the lungs.
  10. Changes in skin color – may be noticed in patients with CHD. For instance, the skin may appear pale, discolored, reddish in appearance or the typical bluish tint.

Patients who need confirmation of genetically inherited conditions or congenital conditions can turn to advanced genetic testing facilities in Tamilnadu. Tests that analyse blood or saliva samples reveal detailed information about possible conditions. This can help to either rule out or confirm any suspected condition.

Which Symptoms Of Heart Disease In Men Are Different From That Of Women?

Some of the symptoms of heart disease in men are different from that of women. This makes it necessary to be clearly informed, to help positively recognize symptoms and initiate suitable remedial measures. Here are the major differences in symptoms between men and women:

  1. Pain in the chest – This is the most common symptom and men experience this as intense pain or pressure. This may spread to the left arm, neck, or jaw. Women experience this chest pain in a milder form like tightness or discomfort.
  2. Radiating pain – Men experience this as pain that radiates to the left arm and the jaw. Women experience this as pain in the back, neck, shoulder, or upper abdomen.  
  3. Difficulty breathing – Men feel breathless during limited physical activity. Women feel breathless even while resting. 
  4. Overall tiredness – Men feel tired after limited activity as a result of reduced blood flow. Women experience this even when there is no physical exertion.  
  5. Nausea, Indigestion – Men do not typically experience this, and may feel this only when there is a severe heart problem. Women experience this commonly, and are often wrongly misinterpreted as acid reflux. 
  6. Irregular heartbeats – Men do not experience this primarily. Women are more likely to experience changes in heart beats.

What Are The Atypical Symptoms Of Heart Valve Disease?

This refers to the condition when valves in the heart function improperly, affecting flow of blood. There are typical symptoms such as pain in the chest, difficulty breathing, and overall fatigue. However, there are some symptoms of heart disease of this category that are not common or typical. Here is a look at these atypical symptoms:

  1. Sudden weight gain – is due to fluid retention arising out of heart failure. This may be observed in the legs, feet, or abdomen.
  2. Persistent cough – mostly experienced during the night, is linked to fluid buildup in the lungs.
  3. Changes in voice – are due to the pressure on the laryngeal nerve from the enlarged chambers and valves.
  4. Gastrointestinal problems – as a result of lesser flow of blood to the digestive system can cause bloating, nausea, or loss of appetite.  
  5. Urge to urinate at night – is experienced when the body flushes out excess fluid built up during the day.
  6. Hands and feet cold to the touch – this is another symptom of poor circulation as a result of valve dysfunction.
  7. Palpitations – may be experienced even without physical activity.
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Which is the best treatment of heart disease?

Which is the Best Treatment of Heart Disease?

Introduction

Heart disease can be managed to a certain extent, and reduce the risk of future adverse events through the right approach to treatment of heart disease. The best way to reduce risk is to undergo screening and follow recommendations diligently. Screening through genetic testing for inherited conditions or congenital diseases will help rule out or reveal future risk of certain conditions. Here is a quick overview of a good treatment approach.

Top Tips for Effective Management of Heart Disease

Various approaches are used in the treatment of heart disease, including managing the condition to improve quality of life. This is also essential to prevent complications and future risk of adverse events. Here are top tips on managing the condition effectively:

  1. Diet – needs to be heart-healthy

You need to consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. An important change is reducing intake of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, by switching over to healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, and avocados.

  1. Exercise – needs to be part of routine

You need to ensure a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise on five days a week. This could be walking, swimming, or cycling; however, it is important to seek consent of the treating specialist before commencing any exercise.

  1. Smoking and drinking 

If you are a smoker, there is no alternative – you need to quit the habit. Smoking is a major risk factor and this includes secondhand smoke. Alcohol consumption will increase your risk of heart disease indirectly. If you are unable to kick the habit, cut down on the intake.

  1. Blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels

Ensure that you periodically check and maintain your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar at right levels. This may necessitate intake of prescribed medications and involve lifestyle changes.

  1. Weight management

Maintain your weight at the right levels, to reduce strain on your heart. This may require a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

What does Medical Management of Congenital Heart Disease Mean?

Congenital heart conditions refer to defects at birth that cause structural or functional abnormalities in the heart. Medical management of congenital heart disease is all about non-surgical methods used in treating and managing symptoms of such heart defects. This could include medications, periodic monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments as part of treatment of heart disease. This includes the following:

  1. Medications such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors or ARBs, beta-blockers, anticoagulants, and prostaglandins.
  2. Monitoring through regular check-ups such as echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and other tests to evaluate heart function.
  3. Lifestyle changes like dietary modifications, physical activities, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake. 
  4. Staying free from infections by intake of antibiotics prior to procedures/surgeries to prevent endocarditis and other infections. 

What is the Most Effective Treatment of Rheumatic Heart Disease?

Prevention of damage to the heart, managing symptoms, and prevention of rheumatic fever. Are part of goals of treatment of heart disease. The actual treatment depends on the severity of the condition and complications. Effective approaches involve the following:

  1. Antibiotics – such as penicillin are used to prevent recurrent rheumatic fever.  Long-term prophylactic antibiotics are also recommended to prevent infections from Group A Streptococcus bacteria. 
  2. Anti – inflammatory medicines – like aspirin, corticosteroids and NSAIDS are used to reduce inflammation of the heart, and pain.  
  3. Managing heart failure – through medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or digoxin. This is prescribed when the damaged heart valves cause heart failure. 
  4. Valve repair or replacement – when the heart valves are severely damaged, surgical procedures may be necessary for repair or replacement.
  5. Anticoagulant therapy – is another option when blood thinners are used to reduce risk of blood clots and possible stroke. This is applicable in cases where the valve damage causes abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation. 

What are the Different Types of Heart Disease Medicine?

One of the most important dimensions of treatment of heart disease are the prescribed medicines. Different heart disease medications handle different aspects of heart conditions, as outlined below:

  1. Anticoagulants prevent blood clots that cause heart attacks, strokes, or other cardiovascular issues.  
  2. Antiplatelet agents prevent platelets from sticking together, resulting in clot formation in arteries.
  3. ACE inhibitors bring down blood pressure levels by relaxing blood vessels.
  4. ARBs relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. 
  5. Beta-blockers reduce heart rate and blood pressure levels. 
  6. Calcium channel blockers relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure levels, apart from relieving chest pain. 
  7. Diuretics reduce fluid levels in the body, and lower blood pressure. 
  8. Statins bring down cholesterol levels in the blood.
  9. Nitrates relax blood vessels, enhancing blood flow and offering relief from chest pain. 
  10. Digoxin strengthens heart contractions reducing heart rate.  
  11. Aldosterone antagonists reduce salt and water retention, lowering blood pressure. 
  12. Vasodilators relax blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.  

Is There a Plan That can be Called as The Best Diet for Heart Disease Reversal?

No diet can be labelled as the “best” diet to bring about heart disease reversal. However, some diets are part of treatment of heart disease because of documented evidence in improving heart health. A heart-healthy diet could involve the following:

  1. Plant-based  

You would be put on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Certain diets, namely the Ornish diet and Esselstyn diet considerably reduce intake of animal products and fats.

  1. Mediterranean diet

This is not a completely plant-based diet, but is actually one of the most researched diets. This focusses on consumption of healthy fats, mainly from olive oil, nuts, and fish. Your intake would include fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats with less red meat. 

  1. DASH diet

Acronym for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, the DASH Diet also improves heart health. The intake is mainly foods rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium with lesser sodium. You will take more of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats like olive oil, while reducing red meat, and processed foods.

  1. Whole-Food, Plant-Based Diet

Commonly known as WFPB, this cuts out all processed foods, focusing on whole, unrefined foods. This would include fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, to keep intake of saturated fats low.

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Practical Insights About The Heart Pathophysiology Disease

Practical Insights into Pathophysiology of Heart Disease

Introduction

Most of us are aware of commonly known heart conditions and the outcomes. However, despite this knowledge, fatalities and adverse events from poor heart health continue to rise. This is because of a lack of awareness of how the disease develops and the risk factors. Here is a look at the pathophysiology of heart disease to help you take the right measures for prevention and reducing risk.

What is the Pathophysiology of Rheumatic Heart Disease?

This involves a complex sequence of actions following strep throat infection or scarlet fever. Let’s look at the pathophysiology of heart disease specifically rheumatic heart disease in detail:

  1. Initial infection

RHD typically begins with an infection of the throat from Group A Streptococcus bacteria. This infection causes rheumatic fever, that affects various organs such as the heart, joints, skin, and brain.

  1. Immune response  

Following this, the body’s immune system produces antibodies to fight the infection. But, as a result of what is known as molecular mimicry, these antibodies end up attacking the body’s own tissues. For instance, some of the tissues in the heart have protein that is similar to those in the bacteria, and therefore the heart valves are affected. 

One of the outcomes of this autoimmune response is inflammation in the heart, especially in the endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium. 

  1. Rheumatic fever  

The next phase is the acute phase, where the inflammation affects the heart tissue, causing rheumatic carditis. The heart valves, especially the mitral valve and aortic valve, end up inflamed, thickened, with scarring. This affects the functioning of the valves, restricting blood flow, causing blood to flow backward etc.

  1. Fibrosis

Gradually, as a result of repeated episodes of inflammation the heart valves suffer damage, causing thickening and stiffening, known as fibrosis.  This severely affects the functioning of the heart.

  1. Heart failure

With extensive damage, the burden on the heart to pump blood increases. This extra workload causes heart enlargement, weakens the heart muscle, and results in heart failure.

What is the Pathophysiology of Ischemic Heart Disease?

Also known as coronary artery disease, this is mainly due to reduced flow of blood to the heart muscle. This is the result of narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, resulting in poor oxygen supply to the heart. Here is a step by step break down of the pathophysiology of heart disease specifically ischemic heart disease.

  1. Atherosclerosis  

This is regarded as the most common cause, beginning with accumulation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and other substances. This accumulation is on the inner walls of the coronary arteries, resulting in the formation of plaque. Risk factors that cause damage to the inner lining of the artery include LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking, diabetes and chronic inflammation.

  1. Endothelial dysfunction

The role of the endothelium is to help arteries relax and control blood flow. As a result of atherosclerosis, this function is affected and the arteries do not relax as required. This impacts flow of blood to the heart. 

  1. Oxygen supply  

With narrowing coronary arteries, the heart muscle does not receive adequate oxygen-rich blood. This makes the heart muscle to become ischemic, causing chest pain.  

  1. Thrombosis  

There is a possibility of the plaque in the coronary artery rupturing, and the body’s system attempts to repair this by forming a blood clot. This blood clot blocks or obstructs the artery, causing chest pain, and possible heart attack. The latter occurs when there is complete blockage of the coronary artery cutting off blood flow. 

  1. Myocardial Ischemia

Myocardial ischemia is due to reduced blood supply that weakens the heart muscle. When the flow of blood is restored either through medications or other actions, the heart muscle recovers. When the blockage lasts for a long period, myocardial infarction or heart attack occurs, wherein cells in one part of the heart muscle die. 

How does Heart Disease Intermittent Fasting Help?

With the important information about pathophysiology of heart disease covered, let us look at the impact of intermittent fasting on heart health. This is being studied for possible effect in reducing the risk of heart disease. The approach involves phases or periods of eating alternating with periods of fasting. This includes approaches like the 16:8 method or the alternate day fasting method. Let us look at how it may work in improving heart health.

  1. Lipid levels

This method of fasting may help lower LDL and triglycerides, that cause development of atherosclerosis. By reducing these levels, the narrowing of arteries which is the main cause of ischemic heart disease can be prevented.

  1. Insulin resistance

Type 2 diabetes is closely related to heart disease and one of the causes of diabetes is insulin resistance. Intermittent fasting helps improve insulin sensitivity, permitting the body’s utilization of glucose, reducing the risk of diabetes. This, in turn, brings down the risk of cardiovascular health issues.

  1. Weight management

Obesity is a significant risk factor for heart disease and intermittent fasting helps reduce calorie intake, bringing about weight management. This also helps reduce the strain on the heart, bring down blood pressure levels, and improve cardiovascular health.

  1. Blood pressure

Hypertension causes damage to the arteries making the heart to work harder, and increasing risk of heart disease. Intermittent fasting can bring down blood pressure levels, reducing the burden on the heart and improving heart health.

Other benefits include reducing chronic inflammation, improving cellular repair, and improving heart rate variability.

What is Atherosclerosis Heart Disease and How can it be Prevented?

As part of understanding the pathophysiology of heart disease, let us look at coronary artery disease. This condition occurs due to narrowing or blockage of the arteries, due to buildup of plaque.

  1. Plaque – forms due to damage to the inner lining of the arteries, and accumulation of cholesterol and fats.
  2. Narrowing of arteries – happens over time due to this plaque buildup. 
  3. Flow of blood – is reduced cutting off oxygen-rich blood supply.
  4. Plaque ruptures – resulting in formation of blood clots, blocking the artery completely.

Which Body System is Directly Affected When a Person has Heart Disease?

As part of understanding the pathophysiology of heart disease here is a look at systems affected by heart disease. The heart is unable to pump blood effectively, and narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries cause reduced flow of blood to the heart muscle. Hypertension strains the heart and blood vessels, while heart diseases increase the risk of formation of blood clots. Other systems affected include:

  • Respiratory system.
  • Renal system.
  • Endocrine system.
  • Nervous system.
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Is it possible to prevent rheumatic heart disease?

Is It Possible To Prevent Rheumatic Heart Disease?

Introduction

Technically, it is possible to prevent rheumatic heart disease as the cause of the condition is strep infections. By preventing the onset of strep infections, or completely treating the infection, it is possible to prevent RHD. However, this may be challenging in some situations as it requires monitoring and medications on a long term basis. Here is a good look at RHD, diagnostic criteria, timeline and treatment options.

What Is The Timeline For Onset And Progression Of Rhd Heart Disease?

Rheumatic heart disease begins with the initial Group A Streptococcus infection and concludes with development of heart disease. Here is the typical timeline of rheumatic heart disease:

  1. Streptococcal infection (days 0-14) – This begins with the patient contracting streptococcal infection, developing either as strep throat or skin infection. Possible symptoms include sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
  2. Infection left untreated (1-3 weeks) – When the streptococcal infection is not treated with antibiotics, rheumatic fever disease risk increases. The symptoms of infection subside, while the immune system starts to react to the bacteria.
  3. Rheumatic fever (2-6 weeks post infection) – Onset of rheumatic fever typically occurs 2-4 weeks after the initial infection. Possible symptoms include inflammation of the heart, pain in the joints and possible swelling, involuntary movements and outbreak of rashes and subcutaneous nodules. 
  4. Heart Valve Damage (after rheumatic fever) – Post rheumatic fever, the heart valves undergo damage over many weeks. Possible symptoms of heart disease include difficulty breathing, pain in the chest, overall fatigue, and swelling in the feet.
  5. Rheumatic Heart Disease – This occurs overs months or possibly years, as a result of the chronic inflammation, causing scarring and deformity of the heart valves. Severity of rheumatic heart disease include heart failure, arrhythmias and infective endocarditis.

What Is The Most Effective RHD Heart Disease Treatment?

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, and preventing complications. The goal of rheumatic heart disease treatment is handling the underlying rheumatic fever, and effective treatment approaches include:

  1. Antibiotic medications – like penicillin are administered on a long-term basis to prevent recurrent rheumatic fever.
  2. Heart failure symptoms – are managed with medications to relieve symptoms and improve heart function. Medicines include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers and aldosterone antagonists. 
  3. Anti –inflammatory medicines like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids are given to reduce inflammation in the heart.
  4. Surgery – is required in cases where there is considerable valve damage. This could be either valve repair or replacement.
  5. Lifestyle changes – are necessary to reduce risk and prevent complications. This includes consumption of a balanced diet, doctor approved physical activity, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake and weight management.

What Symptoms Can Be Called As Rheumatic Heart Disease Criteria?

The Revised Jones Criteria helps in identifying rheumatic fever, resulting in rheumatic heart disease. Major criteria with respective symptoms include the following:

  • Carditis with symptoms like inflammation of the heart, heart murmurs, pain in the chest, difficulty breathing, palpitations and overall fatigue. The patient may experience swelling in the feet, or abdomen as a result of heart failure.
  • Polyarthritis with symptoms like migratory arthritis that affects large joints such as the knees, ankles, elbows. This causes swelling, pain, reddish appearance and affects mobility.
  • Chorea with symptoms like involuntary, sudden movements affecting the limbs, face and speech.
  • Erythema marginatum is a type of rash causing pink or red rings on the trunk and inside portions of limbs. These rashes are not known to cause any itching sensation.
  • Subcutaneous nodules are painless lumps that form over bony areas or over tendons, indicating severe rheumatic fever.

What Is The Main Rheumatic Heart Disease Causative Agent?

One of the main or primary reasons for rheumatic heart disease is infection from Group A Streptococcus bacteria.  The timeline and progression of the disease from infection is explained above. Treatment with antibiotics can prevent rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. This is necessary for patients and populations with a history of rheumatic fever.

What Are The Critical Or Main Rheumatic Heart Disease Complications?

Various complications arise as a result of rheumatic heart disease. This is mainly due to the damage of the heart valves as a result of inflammation. Let us take a quick look at the main complications arising from RHD:

Damage to the heart valves:

  • Mitral valve stenosis – refers to narrowing of the mitral valve, causing restricted flow of blood from the left atrium to the left ventricle.
  • Mitral valve regurgitation – refers to leakage of blood into the left atrium, as a result of improper closure of mitral valve. 
  • Aortic valve stenosis – refers to narrowing of the aortic valve, restricting flow of blood from the left ventricle to the aorta.
  • Aortic valve regurgitation – refers to flow of blood back from the aorta to the left ventricle, resulting in overload and weakening of the heart.
  • Heart failure – is a possible outcome due to damage to the heart valves, making the heart unable to pump blood effectively. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, overall fatigue, and swelling in the feet.
  • Arrhythmias – is due to the inflammation of the heart, affecting normal electrical pathways. These irregular heartbeats can be life-threatening at times.
  • Infective endocarditis – is due to damaged heart valves that are prone to bacterial infections. Infective endocarditis is a serious infection that can damage the valves and spread across other organs.
  • Thromboembolic events – refers to turbulent flow of blood as a result of valve dysfunction. This can considerably increase the risk of formation of blood clots, that may dislodge resulting in strokes or pulmonary embolisms.
  • Progressive heart disease – occurs over time, with RHD affected individuals experiencing worsening heart function. This aggravated condition and its complications require intensive treatments or possible surgical interventions.

Is It Possible To Detect RHD Through Genetic Testing?

No, genetic testing has a different purpose and is used for detecting genetic mutations or certain inherited conditions. These tests help to determine if the person is at risk of developing heart diseases in the future or over a lifetime. RHD is due rheumatic fever and therefore cannot be detected with genetic testing.

It is however, advisable to undergo genetic testing to look for other genetic risk factors that may complicate RHD. Saliva or blood samples are analyzed to look for genetic component of heart disease and risk.

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Expert guidelines on treatment and management of cardiovascular diseases

Expert guidelines on treatment and management of cardiovascular diseases

Introduction

Every 06 seconds one person in India succumbs to cardiovascular disease. This is because annually the number of deaths in India from CVD is 4.77 million. It is possible to reduce the risk of this dreaded disease through a simple approach, including detection and treatment. Let’s take a look at specialists endorsed guidelines for the timely treatment and management of cardiovascular disease.

What are the various cardiovascular disease treatment options?

Treatment of cardiovascular disease after it has been diagnosed includes the following standard options. This typically involves the use of medications, changes in lifestyle and for some people, it could also require surgical procedures.

An important aspect of treatment and management of CVD is changes to lifestyle. This is known to have a strong impact on outcomes and also help to reduce risks from the disease. Changes to lifestyle include:

  1.  Diet – consumption of a diet that is labelled as heart healthy. For instance, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, intake of salt is to be lowered, while intake of unhealthy fats is also to be reduced considerably.
  2.  Physical activity – Individuals diagnosed with some form of CVD are to ensure a fitness regimen of 30 minutes every day.
  3.  Weight – this is to be managed in such a manner so as to regulate blood pressure levels, bad cholesterol, and control blood sugar levels.
  4.  Smoking and drinking – are to be stopped, as this is a major factor or contributor to increased risk.

Apart from lifestyle changes, you will also be recommended medications to manage the condition, including:

  1. Antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants – to prevent blood clots.
  2. Statins and similar medications – to lower cholesterol levels.
  3. Antihypertensive medications – to control blood pressure levels.
  4. Diabetes – to manage blood sugar levels.

As outlined above, in certain instances, it may be necessary to undergo procedures to fix problems. This could be a procedure to treat a problem that has already progressed, including:

  1. Angioplasty and positioning of stents – to open blocked coronary arteries.
  2. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting – to improve blood flow by bypassing blocked arteries.
  3. Use of devices – like pacemakers to manage irregular heartbeats.
  4. Valve repair – these procedures are required when heart valves are damaged.

What is the treatment for cardiovascular disease when it is in an advanced stage?

Before we look at the treatment and management of cardiovascular diseases in an advanced stage, it is important to know what happens in that stage. Advanced stage CVD is also known as congestive heart failure. This happens when the heart is unable to pump enough blood and in turn makes the heart to work harder. This condition has certain tell-tale symptoms that can be used to identify the disease. 

  1. Heart beat changes – in this stage, you may experience faster heart beats. Alternatively, you may feel that your heart is beating abnormally hard. 
  2. Profuse sweating, difficulty breathing and unusual tiredness may be experienced in this stage.
  3. Increased anxiety – the sudden changes may make you increasingly anxious about your health.
  4. Sudden weight loss, unusual changes in the color of your skin, swelling, and pain in the abdomen are other possible symptoms.

What are the treatments for cardiovascular disease in advanced stage?

It is necessary to note that presently there is no cure for heart failure. The whole idea of treatment and management is to relieve symptoms and reduce the possibility of more damage. The actual treatment will depend on various factors, including the extent of failure, type of heart failure, and underlying conditions. 

  • Treatment involves changes in lifestyle such as reduced intake of salt. This is because fluid retention can cause complications. Similarly, you will be asked to go off caffeine due to heartbeat irregularities. Additionally, your intake of fluid intake will also be controlled.
  • Medicines are an important part of the treatment plan. This will include vasodilators to ensure relaxed blood flow, diuretics and aldosterone inhibitors to regulate fluid retention. Other medicines include ACE inhibitors, ARB drugs to enhance the functioning of the heart. Similarly, digitalis glycosides help to improve the contractions of the heart. Finally, you may also be recommended medications like tranquilizers to bring down your anxiety. Standard medications given during initial stages of CVD will also be recommended – anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and beta-blockers. 
  • Surgical procedures are often relied upon in severe cases. This is mainly to bypass blocked arteries, or in some instances to fix or replace heart valves. Devices like pacemakers help both sides of the heart to work in unison. Other implants include defibrillators, that send shock impulses to manage heart rhythm

What is the ideal approach to cardiovascular disease treatment and prevention?

The best approach to treatment and management of CVD is early detection and preventive, remedial measures. There are various factors that cause CVD, and it is possible to understand future or lifetime risk of the disease through proper screening. This includes laboratory tests to look for conditions that are known to cause CVD. These are simple tests that can help determine if a person has diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels. These conditions are known to contribute to risk of CVD. Other conditions that could also cause CVD include sleep apnea.

One of the reasons for certain cardiovascular disease is known as the genetic component. You may inherit certain conditions from your parent, like hypertension, cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias. This passes from the parent to offspring in DNA. Similarly, a person belonging to a family that has a history of heart attack is also prone to higher risk.

This genetic component of cardiovascular diseases can be detected much earlier, unlike other disease factors. A simple blood sample or saliva sample is all that is required to check if you are at risk of CVD in the future from the genetic angle. Advanced genetic testing facilities are presently available in Tamil Nadu, and this can help you screen for the disease.

This is a huge advantage considering that you will learn of any possible risk, well in advance. This is unlike other factors such as high cholesterol levels or diabetes or hypertension, wherein you will know, only if the condition has progressed to levels where it can be detected as borderline or above.

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Standard Diagnosis And Cardiovascular Test For Disease

Cardiology

Introduction

Every fourth death in India is due to cardiovascular diseases. This statistic is even more alarming considering that this development began after the year 1990. From 1990, the number of cases has more than doubled, and an early onset of the disease is now affecting younger people. This makes it all the more important for early Cardiovascular Test for cardiovascular diseases. Here are details on how you can do that easily.

What are the tests for cardiovascular disease diagnosis?

Various tests are presently available as part of diagnosis and testing for cardiovascular disease. The most common approach includes a clear understanding of family history apart from the following tests:

  •       Blood tests.
  •       Chest X-ray
  •       Electrocardiogram.
  •       Holter monitoring.
  •       Echocardiogram.
  •       Stress tests.
  •       Cardiac catheterization.
  •       Heart CT scan.
  •       Heart MRI scan.  

What are the preventive or screening Cardiovascular Test for disease?

While diagnosis and testing is as listed above, the main screening for cardiovascular disease includes the following:

  1. Blood pressure – This is considered as a mandatory test, as high blood pressure may not present symptoms normally. The best option is to undergo tests to screen. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mm Hg, and you need to check this yearly. When the values are higher, you will need to control it through medication and lifestyle modifications. 
  2. Cholesterol – This is checked through blood tests that check your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides levels. Based on the results it is possible to roughly estimate your future risk of cardiovascular disease.
  3. Weight/obesity – Your waist circumference and/or body weight helps to measure body mass index. Obesity increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  4.  Blood glucose –Untreated diabetes can indirectly cause heart disease and stroke.
  5.  Lifestyle – If you happen to be a smoker, if you are physically inactive, or if you follow a poor diet, you are at risk.
  • Blood pressure level is considered normal if it is below 120/80 mm Hg.
  • The normal cholesterol levels for adults are as given below:
  • Total cholesterol for adults is considered normal if it is less than 200 mg/dL. If it is between 200–239 mg/dL it is borderline high, and above 240 mg/dL is considered high.
  • LDL cholesterol is considered as normal if it is less than 100 mg/dL. If it is between 100–129 mg/dL it is borderline, and between 130–159 mg/dL is labelled as borderline high. Levels between 160–189 mg/dL are high, and above 190 mg/dL are very high. 
  • HDL cholesterol is considered best when it is 60 mg/dL or more. When the levels are below 40 mg/dL it is considered as poor (in this context it is bad).
  • Normal triglyceride level is below 150 mg/dL.
  • Normal body mass index (BMI) for adults is between 18.5 to 24.9. Levels between 25 and 29.9 are regarded as overweight, levels between 30 and 39.9 are considered as obesity. When the levels are above 40, it is regarded as severe obesity. 
  • Fasting blood glucose levels between 70–99 mg/dL are considered as normal. Levels between 100–125 mg/dL is regarded as prediabetes, and above 126 mg/dL is diagnosed as diabetes.

What is the best approach to test for cardiovascular disease?

The best approach to diagnosis and testing would be to undergo tests and assessment for modifiable risk factors as well as non-modifiable risk factors. For instance, by checking for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes you can work on reducing the effects. You can bring about changes in lifestyle and also rely on medications to mitigate the effects.

There are other factors that pose a risk of heart attack or other cardiovascular diseases. This is the genetic component – such as an inherited condition or some genetic mutation. By undergoing genetic tests, you can uncover these risks and work towards mitigating them. The tests, presently available in Tamilnadu, involve analyzing your saliva or blood sample. This looks for genetic mutations or changes that could predispose you to certain conditions.

Based on the genetic test reports, your cardiologist will recommend lifestyle changes, and medications, wherever necessary. This will considerably reduce your future or lifetime risk of heart attack. Therefore, the best approach is to check for all possible risk factors of cardiovascular disease and take appropriate remedial measures.

What are the traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease?

Multiple factors are considered as traditional risks for cardiovascular disease. The most common among these include the following:

  • High blood pressure – Cardiovascular Test is medically labelled as a silent killer, as it develops undetected for a significant percentage of people. The warning signs are usually detected after the condition has progressed to an advanced stage. This makes it essential to periodically opt for diagnosis and testing to check for the condition.
  • Overweight – Obesity will indirectly cause cardiovascular diseases, when left untreated. The numbers clearly explain this – 8 out of ten people who have CVD are either overweight or obese.
  • Diabetes – People with diabetes may end up with CVD at some point, if the condition is left untreated. This is because diabetes may cause (i) nerve damage and (ii) damage to blood vessels resulting in build up of fatty deposits.
  • Smoking – Multiple effects are attributed to smoking. For instance, smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood, casing damage to tissues. Similarly, fibrinogen levels increase due to smoking, which contribute to increased blood clotting factors. Another effect is damage to blood vessels, that result in build-up of plaque, eventually resulting in atherosclerosis.
  • High cholesterol levels – This causes build-up of fatty deposits in the blood, and this eventually results in atherosclerosis.
  • Alcohol – Consumption of alcohol can cause an increase in blood pressure levels, and also weaken heart muscles. Additionally, drinking also brings about oxidization of LDL cholesterol, resulting in the formation of blockages.
  • Stress – This causes release of excessive hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol that will cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Stress is also responsible for increased inflammation, and blood clotting, that increase the possibility of stroke.

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr. Rajasekar Cardiologist

    Dr. Rajasekar is a cardiologist in Chennai, with extensive experience in the field. He completed his MBBS from Madurai Kamaraj University, followed by an MD in General Medicine and a DM in Cardiology from The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University (TNMGRMU)

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