Treatment
Treatment of heart diseases depends largely on the underlying condition. For example, if you have an infection of the heart, you will likely be given antimicrobials such as antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals. In general, heart disease treatment usually includes:
Lifestyle Modifications – These include consuming a low-sodium and low-fat diet, limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking and getting at least 30 to 40 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week.
Medications – If dietary changes and lifestyle modifications alone are not enough or effective, your physician may prescribe medicines to manage your heart diseases. The type of prescription will depend on the underlying heart condition you are suffering from.
Medical Procedures or Surgery – If all (diet, lifestyle, and medications) are not working, it’s likely that your physician will suggest specific procedures or surgical intervention. The type of surgeries will depend on the nature of heart disease, the part of the heart it is affecting and the extent of the injury to your heart.
Home Remedies For Heart Disease
A majority of heart conditions can be improved or even prevented by making small changes in your lifestyle. The following modifications can help you improve your heart health.
Stop Smoking – Tobacco or other forms of smoking are a major risk factor for many types of heart diseases, especially atherosclerosis (that causes narrowing and hardening of the arteries and blood vessels). Quitting is an excellent way to decrease your risk of multiple cardiac diseases and their complications.
Keep An Eye On Your Blood Pressure – Ask your physician for a blood pressure measurement at least twice a year, especially if you are above 40 years of age. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 when measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Your doctor may suggest more frequent visits to his clinic if you have a history of heart disease or your blood pressure is elevated than normal.
Check Your Cholesterol – Ask your physician for a routine cholesterol test when you are in your 30s and then every three years. You may need early testing if high cholesterol is in your family or you eat diets rich in cholesterol. If your test results are not within acceptable limits, your physician may prescribe more frequent measurements.
Keep Diabetes Under Control – If you are suffering from diabetes, a strict blood sugar control can help decrease the risk of many heart diseases.
Move More – Exercise or any other kind of physical activity helps you control diabetes, control high blood pressure, achieve and sustain a healthy weight and reduce elevated cholesterol levels – all common risk factors for various heart conditions. If you have a heart defect or heart arrhythmia, there may be some limitations on the exercises or activities you can do. Consulting your doctor in this regard may help develop a healthy exercise routine for you.
With your physician’s OK, do 30 to 60 minutes of any specific exercise or a physical activity most days of the week.
Eat Healthy Foods – There are many diets that can be described as a heart-healthy. These contain a perfect blend of potent ingredients from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Furthermore, they are low in saturated sodium, fat, cholesterol, and added sugar – all harmful food ingredients that can increase the risk of heart disease. Heart-healthy diets such as omega-3 and omega-6 containing fish, oil, and fresh fruits and vegetables can help you control your cholesterol, blood pressure and weight.
Maintain A Healthy Weight – Being overweight boosts your risk of catching multiple heart diseases. You should aim for a waist circumference of 35 inches (88.9 centimeters) and a BMI of less than 25 or less to prevent and treat heart diseases. Eating less fat-laden diet and doing regular exercise are the best ways to reduce weight quickly.
Manage Stress – Being stressed can raise your risk of heart disease significantly. Therefore, you should take steps to reduce stress and anxiety as much as possible. Practicing techniques such as muscle relaxation, deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and massage can help manage stress.