Heart disease treatment encompasses a range of interventions, from lifestyle changes and medications to surgical interventions. Individuals can manage their condition and improve their quality of life by working with a cardiologist. Successful heart disease treatment starts with the patient having the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.
Also known as cardiovascular disease, heart disease is an umbrella term for a range of conditions affecting the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels. The most common type of disease in the United States is coronary artery disease or CAD, where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing the blood supply to the heart. Other forms include heart failure, where the body cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, and heart valve problems, where blood cannot flow properly.
Determining the extent and type of cardiovascular disease is the first step in developing a heart disease treatment plan. A cardiologist conducts several tests to assess heart function, including the following:
An accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing an individualized treatment plan to treat heart disease successfully.
Though each patient is unique, heart disease treatment can involve the following: lifestyle modification, medication, and surgical intervention.
Lifestyle modifications are crucial for successful heart disease treatment and, in some cases, can slow or halt the progression of the disease or reverse it entirely. A cardiologist typically recommends a heart-healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat in which the patient avoids unhealthy fat, salt, and sugar. In addition to diet, regular physical activity is key, and the doctor can advise the patient on a safe exercise regimen. Management of stress and ceasing bad habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are also key.
If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient, a cardiologist may recommend prescription medication. Statins to lower cholesterol are a common medication recommended for heart disease. Other medications include blood thinners to help prevent blood clots that can lead to heart attack or stroke and blood pressure medications to lower stress on the heart. Each medication has its own side effects to consider, and patients should tell their cardiologist about any other physical conditions or medications they are taking.
Surgery is generally the next step if lifestyle changes and medications are not enough. Commonly recommended surgical procedures may include the placement of a pacemaker or defibrillator for managing abnormal heart rhythms. If blocked arteries are an issue, the cardiologist may perform an angioplasty and stent placement to open the blocked artery and improve blood flow. Severe cases may call for a coronary artery bypass graft or CABG to reroute blood flow around blocked arteries.
Dealing with heart disease can be daunting and challenging, but we can help make it easier. Here at {{DBA}}, we will empower you to make heart-healthy and informed decisions about your health. Call today to learn more about your heart disease treatment options.
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