Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease
Treatment of coronary heart disease aims to restore blood flow to the heart, manage symptoms, and prevent future complications such as heart attacks or heart failure. Depending on the severity, coronary heart disease can be treated through lifestyle modifications, medication, and in some cases, surgical procedures. The goal is long-term control of risk factors and improved quality of life.
Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is fundamental:
Diet: Reduce intake of saturated fats, trans fats, salt, and processed sugar. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (e.g. brisk walking, cycling).
Quit smoking: Stopping tobacco use significantly lowers the risk of further artery damage.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the heart and improves blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Stress reduction: Techniques such as meditation, yoga, and therapy can lower stress hormones that affect heart health.
Medications | Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease
Several medications are prescribed to manage symptoms and slow disease progression:
Statins: Lower cholesterol and stabilise plaque
Beta-blockers: Reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure
ACE inhibitors: Improve blood flow and reduce strain on the heart
Antiplatelets (e.g. aspirin): Prevent blood clots
Nitrates: Alleviate angina by dilating blood vessels
Surgical and Interventional Procedures
For advanced cases, procedures may be required:
In angioplasty, doctors use a balloon to open a blocked artery, then insert a stent to keep it open.
In coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, doctors use a healthy artery or vein to bypass a blocked section of a coronary artery.
Cardiac Rehabilitation | Treatment of Coronary Heart Disease
A supervised programme involving exercise, education, and support to help patients recover and prevent further episodes.
In conclusion, treatment of coronary heart disease is multifaceted and requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgical interventions. With consistent care, many individuals can manage their symptoms and significantly reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
[Next: Complications and Recovery from Coronary Heart Disease →]
