Dilated Cardiomyopathy
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Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition characterized by the dilation and weakening of the heart’s main pumping chamber, the left ventricle. This chronic and progressive disorder affects the heart muscle, leading to impaired cardiac function and potentially causing heart failure. DCM can also affect the right ventricle and both ventricles in some cases.

Causes

The exact causes of DCM are often unknown, but various factors can contribute to its development. These include genetic mutations, viral infections (such as viral myocarditis), exposure to toxins (for example alcohol), autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders. In many cases, DCM is considered idiopathic, meaning the cause is uncertain.

Symptoms

DCM can present with a range of symptoms, which may include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling of the legs and ankles (edema), rapid or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias), chest pain, dizziness, and fainting. These symptoms are often related to the heart’s inability to effectively pump blood and supply oxygen to the body’s tissues.

Diagnosis

To diagnose DCM, a comprehensive evaluation is required, which typically involves a thorough medical history review, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. These tests may include electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram (to assess heart structure and function), cardiac MRI or CT scan (for detailed imaging), blood tests (to rule out other conditions), and occasionally a heart biopsy.

Treatment

The management of DCM aims to improve symptoms, slow disease progression, and prevent complications. Treatment approaches may include:

  1. Medications: Several medications can be prescribed to manage symptoms, reduce the workload on the heart, control blood pressure, prevent blood clots, and treat arrhythmias. These may include beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, anticoagulants, and anti-arrhythmic drugs.
  • Lifestyle modifications: Patients need to make lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, avoiding alcohol, stopping smoking, maintaining proper weight, and exercising as required.
  • Device therapy: In advanced cases or those with severe heart failure, implantable devices like pacemakers or defibrillators may be recommended to regulate the heart’s rhythm or deliver electrical shocks if life-threatening arrhythmias occur.
  • Cardiac rehabilitation: This supervised program combines exercise, education, and counseling to help patients recover and improve their overall cardiovascular health.
  • Surgical interventions: In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) to improve blood flow to the heart, or heart transplantation for end-stage heart failure.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with DCM can vary widely depending on the underlying cause, severity of symptoms, and response to treatment. With appropriate management, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to medication, many patients can experience an improved quality of life and a slower disease progression. However, some individuals may develop more severe heart failure and require advanced therapies or heart transplantation. Regular follow-up with a cardiologist is essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

Conclusion

Dilated cardiomyopathy is a complex heart condition characterized by the enlargement and weakening of the heart muscle. While the exact causes are unclear in many cases, a combination of genetic, viral, autoimmune, and environmental factors can contribute to its development. Early diagnosis, appropriate medical management, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes surgical interventions are essential for managing the symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving the prognosis for individuals with DCM.

Ross Procedure
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Ross Procedure

The Ross procedure is a surgical procedure used to treat aortic valve disease, which is a condition in which the valve that controls blood flow from the heart to the aorta becomes narrowed or leaks. This procedure involves replacing the damaged aortic valve with the patient’s own pulmonary valve, and then replacing the pulmonary valve with a donated or artificial valve.

The Ross procedure is named after its creator, Donald Ross, a Scottish cardiac surgeon who developed the technique in the 1960s. Since then, the procedure has become a popular option for treating aortic valve disease in certain patients.

Advantages of Ross Procedure

The Ross procedure is typically recommended for younger patients who have aortic valve disease, as it has several advantages over other types of valve replacement surgery. One of the main advantages is that it avoids the need for lifelong anticoagulation therapy, which is required for patients who receive a mechanical valve replacement. Anticoagulation therapy is a type of medication that helps prevent blood clots, but it can also increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.

Another advantage of the Ross procedure is that it provides a better quality of life for patients. The pulmonary valve is better suited to the low-pressure environment of the aortic position than artificial valves, which can often lead to complications such as valve dysfunction or blood clots.

Procedure

The Ross procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes many hours to complete. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the chest and access the heart. The patient’s pulmonary valve will then be removed and used to replace the damaged aortic valve. A new pulmonary valve, either from a donated cadaver or an artificial valve, will then be used to replace the removed pulmonary valve.

After the procedure, patients may need to spend several days in the hospital recovering. They may experience some discomfort or pain, and will need to take medication to manage pain and prevent infection. Patients will also need to gradually increase their physical activity and follow a prescribed rehabilitation program to help them recover.

Suitability

While the Ross procedure has many benefits, it is not suitable for all patients with aortic valve disease. Patients who have other heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or an enlarged heart, may not be good candidates for the procedure. Additionally, patients who have already had a previous valve replacement or who have other medical conditions that could complicate surgery may not be good candidates for the procedure.

Conclusion

Ross procedure is a surgical procedure used to treat aortic valve disease in certain patients. It involves replacing the damaged aortic valve with the patient’s own pulmonary valve, and then replacing the pulmonary valve with a donated or artificial valve. If you are considering the Ross procedure, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to determine if it is the right option for you.

cardiac catheterization
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What is Cardiac Catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization, also known as coronary angiography, is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the heart and blood vessels to identify any problems. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, typically in the groin or arm, and guiding it through the blood vessels to the heart.

The catheterization procedure is performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory (also known as a cath lab) by a cardiologist. The procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia, which numbs the area where the catheter will be inserted.

Procedure

During the procedure, the cardiologist will make a small incision in the skin and insert a hollow sheath into the blood vessel. The catheter is then inserted through the sheath and guided to the heart using x-ray guidance. Once the catheter is in place, the cardiologist can inject a contrast dye into the bloodstream, which makes the heart and blood vessels visible on x-ray.

The contrast dye allows the cardiologist to examine the heart and blood vessels for any abnormalities or blockages that may be present. If a blockage is found, the cardiologist can perform a procedure called angioplasty to open the blocked artery and restore blood flow to the heart.

Diagnostic Tool

Cardiac catheterization is a valuable diagnostic tool that can provide important information about the heart and blood vessels. It is typically used to diagnose and evaluate a range of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, congenital heart defects, and heart failure.

In addition to providing diagnostic information, cardiac catheterization can also be used to treat certain heart conditions. For example, angioplasty can be used to open blocked arteries and restore blood flow to the heart. Other procedures, such as stent placement and balloon valvuloplasty, can also be performed during cardiac catheterization.

Risks

While cardiac catheterization is generally considered a safe procedure, there are some risks associated with it. These include bleeding, infection, damage to the blood vessels, and allergic reactions to the contrast dye. However, these risks are generally low and can be minimized with proper preparation and monitoring.

Tests before the procedure

Before undergoing cardiac catheterization, patients will typically undergo a series of tests to evaluate their heart health and determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. These tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, stress test, and blood tests.

Patients should also inform their doctor of any medications they are taking, as some medications may need to be temporarily stopped prior to the procedure. Patients should also avoid eating or drinking anything for several hours before the procedure.

Conclusion

Overall, cardiac catheterization is a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating a range of heart conditions. While there are some risks associated with the procedure, these risks are generally low and can be minimized with proper preparation and monitoring. Patients should talk to their doctor about whether cardiac catheterization is a good option for them and what they can expect during and after the procedure.

Electrical cardioversion
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Electrical Cardioversion

Electrical cardioversion is a medical procedure that is used to treat abnormal heart rhythms, also known as arrhythmias. This procedure involves the delivery of a controlled electric shock to the heart through two large pads or paddles placed on the chest. The shock interrupts the abnormal electrical activity of the heart and allows it to reset to its normal rhythm.

Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias can occur in the upper chambers of the heart (atria) or the lower chambers (ventricles). The most common arrhythmias are atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and supraventricular tachycardia. These arrhythmias can cause symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. If left untreated, they can also increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other serious complications.

Electrical cardioversion procedure

Electrical cardioversion is performed by a trained healthcare provider such as a cardiologist. Before the procedure, the patient is given medications to reduce the risk of blood clots and to ensure that the heart is in the correct rhythm. The cardiologist then places the pads or paddles on the chest of the patient, and a brief electric shock is delivered to the heart.

The amount of electricity delivered is carefully calibrated to ensure that it is enough to reset the heart’s rhythm without causing any damage to the heart or surrounding tissues. The shock can cause the patient’s muscles to contract, which can sometimes be painful. However, patients are typically given sedation or anaesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure.

Once the heart has been reset to its normal rhythm, the patient is monitored closely for a period of time to ensure that the heart remains stable. In some cases, additional electrical shocks may be needed to maintain the normal rhythm.

Electrical cardioversion is a highly effective procedure for treating certain types of arrhythmias. In many cases, it can restore normal heart function almost immediately. However, the success of the procedure depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the arrhythmia, the duration of the arrhythmia, and the overall health of the patient.

Medical evaluation before electrical cardioversion

Before undergoing electrical cardioversion, patients will usually undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure that they are good candidates for the procedure. This evaluation may include blood tests, an electrocardiogram (ECG), a chest X-ray, and other tests as needed. The healthcare provider will also review the patient’s medical history, including any medications or supplements that the patient is taking.

Patients with certain conditions may not be suited for electrical cardioversion. For example, patients with certain types of heart disease, severe lung disease, or a history of blood clots may be at increased risk of complications from the procedure. The doctor will carefully evaluate the patient’s medical history and perform any necessary tests to determine whether electrical cardioversion is safe and appropriate.

Electrical cardioversion is generally a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it can have some risks. The most common side effect is mild skin irritation or burns where the pads or paddles are placed on the chest. These typically heal within a few days.

Patients may also be advised to make certain lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and losing weight, to reduce the risk of future arrhythmias.

Conclusion

Electrical cardioversion is an effective treatment for certain types of arrhythmias. With proper care and follow-up, many patients can expect to have improved heart function and reduced risk of future arrhythmias.

Complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect
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Complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect (CAVC)

Complete atrioventricular canal defect (CAVC) is a rare congenital heart condition that occurs when there is a hole in the centre of the heart that affects the atria and ventricles. This condition is also known as an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), and it can cause a range of serious health problems if left untreated.

In a normal heart, there is a wall (septum) between the two atria and another wall between the two ventricles. These walls prevent the mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood. In CAVC, these walls are missing, and a large hole exists between the atria and ventricles. As a result, oxygen-rich blood mixes with oxygen-poor blood, leading to reduced oxygen levels in the body and heart failure over time.

Diagnosis of CAVC

CAVC is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood. Infants with CAVC may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, and feeding difficulties. In some cases, babies with CAVC may also have low oxygen levels, which can cause a bluish tint to the skin (cyanosis).

The diagnosis of CAVC is usually confirmed through diagnostic tests such as an echocardiogram, which uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. Other tests that may be performed include an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity and a chest X-ray to check for signs of heart enlargement.

Treatment

Treatment for CAVC usually involves surgery to close the hole in the heart and reconstruct the affected valves. This type of surgery is typically done in early infancy or early childhood, depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as heart failure or to prevent complications such as infection.

Long-term outlook

The long-term outlook for children with CAVC depends on the severity of the defect and the timing of treatment. In general, children who receive timely and appropriate treatment have a good prognosis and can live normal, healthy lives. However, in severe cases, CAVC can lead to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other serious complications.

In addition to medical treatment, children with CAVC may require ongoing monitoring and care throughout their lives. This may include regular check-ups with a pediatric cardiologist, medication management, and follow-up diagnostic tests such as echocardiograms.

Conclusion

Complete atrioventricular canal defect is a rare but serious congenital heart condition that affects the atria and ventricles of the heart. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing the condition and preventing complications. If you suspect your child may have CAVC, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure the best possible outcome.

Positron Emission Tomography
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How Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan Works?

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a medical imaging technique that produces detailed images of the inside of the body. It is used to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.

What is a PET scan?

A PET scan is a type of medical imaging that uses a small amount of a radioactive substance, called a tracer, to produce images of the inside of the body. The tracer is injected into the body, swallowed, or inhaled, and then detected by a PET scanner. The PET scanner is a large machine that contains a ring of detectors that can detect the radiation emitted by the tracer.

How does a PET scan work?

The tracer used in a PET scan is typically a compound that contains a small amount of a radioactive substance, such as fluorine-18 or carbon-11. These radioactive substances emit positrons, which are positively charged particles that are the opposite of electrons. When a positron encounters an electron in the body, they annihilate each other and emit two gamma rays in opposite directions.

The PET scanner detects the gamma rays and uses them to create a three-dimensional image of the area being scanned. The scanner can detect the gamma rays from multiple angles, which allows it to create a detailed image of the area.

What happens during a PET scan?

Before the PET scan, the patient is injected with the tracer. The tracer is typically injected into a vein in the arm, but it can also be swallowed or inhaled, depending on the type of scan being done.

After the tracer is injected, the patient is asked to rest for a period of time to allow the tracer to circulate through the body. The amount of time the patient needs to rest depends on the type of scan being done and the tracer being used.

Once the tracer has circulated through the body, the patient is taken to the PET scanner. The scanner is a large machine with a narrow table that slides in and out of the machine.

The patient lies on the table, and the scanner is positioned over the area being scanned. The patient needs to remain still during the scan to ensure the images are clear.

The scanner emits a small amount of radiation to detect the tracer in the body. The patient will not feel anything during the scan, but they may hear a clicking or buzzing sound coming from the machine.

After the scan is complete, the patient can go home. The amount of radiation in the tracer is small, and it typically does not pose a health risk.

What are the uses of PET scans?

PET scans are used to diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions, including:

  1. Cancer: PET scans can help to diagnose cancer and determine the extent of the disease. They can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy.
  2. Heart disease: PET scans can be used to diagnose heart disease and determine the extent of damage to the heart muscle. They can also be used to assess blood flow to the heart and to determine the effectiveness of treatments, such as angioplasty.
  3. Neurological disorders: PET scans can be used to diagnose and monitor neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy.
  4. Mental health disorders: PET scans can be used to study the brain and to diagnose and monitor mental health disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia.
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Different Types of Heart Disease

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood throughout the body, and its proper functioning is essential for good health. However, various factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and other health conditions can contribute to the development of heart disease. In this blog we will discuss different types of heart diseases and how they affect the heart and blood vessels.

  • Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Coronary artery disease is a condition that occurs when the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart become narrow or blocked, causing a reduction in blood flow to the heart muscle especially when demand is high on exertion. This can lead to chest pain, angina, and heart attack. The primary cause of CAD is the build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries. Plaque is a mixture of cholesterol, fat, and other substances that can clog the arteries and make it difficult for blood to flow. The risk factors for CAD include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and a family history of heart disease.

  • Heart Attack

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when a blood clot or plaque ruptures in a coronary artery, blocking blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle. This can cause damage or death to the heart muscle, which can lead to serious health problems, including heart failure. The symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, and light headedness. Quick treatment with medications and procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery can help prevent further damage to the heart and reduce the risk of heart failure.

  • Heart Failure

During heart failure the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s requirements. This can occur due to damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack, heart valve dysfunction, myopathy, certain infections, high blood pressure, or other health conditions. Heart failure can cause a number of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. Treatment for heart failure includes medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, surgery to implant a pacemaker or defibrillator, ventricular assist devices and heart transplant.

  • Arrhythmia

Arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that can occur due to a variety of factors, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and stress. The symptoms of arrhythmia include palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Treatment for arrhythmia may include medications, lifestyle changes, and procedures such as ablation or implantation of a pacemaker or defibrillator.

  • Valvular Heart Disease

Valvular heart disease is a condition that occurs when the valves in the heart that regulate blood flow become damaged or diseased. The most common types of valvular heart disease include aortic stenosis, in which the aortic valve becomes narrow, aortic regurgitation in which the valve leaks and mitral stenosis in which mitral valve becomes narrow and mitral regurgitation, in which the mitral valve leaks. The symptoms of valvular heart disease can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or in severe cases, surgery to repair or replace the affected valve. In selected cases percutaneous valve replacement and repair is also possible nowadays.

  • Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease is a condition that is present at birth and affects the structure of the heart. This type of heart disease can be caused by genetic factors or environmental factors during pregnancy. The symptoms of congenital heart disease can vary depending on the specific condition, but may include shortness of breath, fatigue, and heart murmur. Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery to repair or replace the affected heart structures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, heart disease is a complex and often life-threatening condition that can take many forms. Understanding the different types of heart disease, their symptoms, and their causes, is an important step towards reducing the risk factors and improving the chances of maintaining good health. With timely treatment the patients can look forward to almost normal life in most cases.

Coronary Microvascular Disease
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Coronary Microvascular Disease (CMD)

Coronary microvascular disease (CMD) is a condition that affects the small blood vessels in the heart. It is a common cause of chest pain and can also lead to heart failure. While CMD is often overlooked, it is a serious condition that can have significant consequences for people who have it.

How is CMD Caused?

CMD is caused by a blockage or damage to the small blood vessels in the heart, which can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. This can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. It can also lead to heart failure, in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

CMD is often difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions such as angina or heart attack. In addition, traditional tests such as angiography may not be able to detect the blockages or damage in the small blood vessels. As a result, CMD may be misdiagnosed or go undiagnosed for some time.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for CMD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking. It is also more common in women and people with a family history of heart disease. These risk factors can damage the small blood vessels in the heart and lead to CMD.

Treatment of CMD

The good news is that CMD is a treatable condition. The first step in treatment is to manage any underlying risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. This may involve lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and quitting smoking. In some cases, medications may be necessary to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and improve blood flow to the heart.

In addition to managing risk factors, it is important to address any symptoms of CMD. This may involve the use of medications to manage chest pain and improve blood flow to the heart. In some cases, procedures such as angioplasty or stenting may be necessary to open blocked blood vessels.

It is important to regularly consult with the specialist who can develop a treatment plan to manage CMD. This may include regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. By taking steps to manage CMD, patients can reduce their risk of heart failure and other serious complications.

Conclusion

CMD is a serious condition that affects the small blood vessels in the heart. It can cause chest pain and lead to heart failure if left untreated. Risk factors for CMD include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes and medications, and in some cases, procedures to open blocked blood vessels.

How can Work Stress Hurt your Heart – and How to Prevent?
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How can Work Stress Hurt your Heart – and How to Prevent?

Stress is considered to be a normal part of life. Stress under manageable limits increases alertness and performance. However, uncontrolled stress can lead to many health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and heart disease.

Common symptoms of stress include anxiety, fatigue, sleep problems, upset stomach, chest pain, etc.

Signs of Work Stress

Working professionals have been experiencing increasing stress in recent times. This is due to the hectic nature of the jobs, long work hours, heavy workload, strict deadlines, job insecurity and other reasons.

Stress related problems in offices have led to many issues like arguments with co-workers, mood swings, loss of motivation and confidence, decreased performance, regular absence due to sickness, high attrition and so on.

Hence, it is very important for employers to assess the impact of work related stress and take appropriate action to protect the employees.

Effect of stress on the heart

In a stressful situation the human body releases a hormone called adrenaline that causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure temporarily. Chronic stress can cause conditions like inflammation, high blood pressure, and low HDL or good cholesterol, which can all impact the heart and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Negative mental health conditions like stress, anxiety and depression can lead to harmful responses from the body such as irregular heart rate and rhythm, reduced blood flow to the heart, etc.

It has been observed that people with positive mental health are at lower risk of developing heart disease as they have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure and better glucose control.

Managing Work Stress

Stress can be managed by adopting regular physical activity, consuming a balanced diet and getting adequate sleep. It is also helpful to practice relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing, spending time with family and friends, developing hobbies, etc. to keep stress under control.

Employees suffering from work related stress also need to make some changes in their work environment to reduce their stress levels. It is recommended to organise official tasks in order of priority and take up the difficult tasks in the morning hours when the employee is fresh and active.

Advice and help can be taken from co-workers on how to handle any difficult tasks. Work should not be taken up after office hours preferably and the time should be utilised for relaxation and spending on personal activities.

Any health concerns should be brought to the notice of the human resources department in the organisation, so that they can be addressed immediately. If the symptoms of stress continue to persist over a period of time, it is essential to consult a physician or psychologist and seek their advice.

Role of family; meditation;friend; office sessions from company.

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Life after Bypass Surgery

Coronary artery disease occurs due to the hardening of arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle. Bypass surgery is performed to restore normal blood flow to the obstructed coronary artery.

Bypass surgery helps the patients by improving the quality of life and decreasing angina and other CAD symptoms. It improves the pumping action of the heart and lowers the risk of a heart attack. Additionally it enables patients to resume a more active lifestyle.

According to Dr. Ramji Mehrotra, who is one of the Best Cardiac Surgeon in India, patients generally exhibit excellent results after bypass surgery. 85% of people have significantly reduced symptoms, with lesser risk of heart attacks in future, and a lesser chance of dying even beyond 10 years.

Recuperating after bypass surgery

Dr. Mehrotra says that patients should definitely follow the doctor’s advice regarding diet, activity and lifestyle changes, to be adopted after surgery and during recovery. They should take medication as per directions and notify the doctor immediately of any concerns like fever, pain, bleeding or problems at the incision site.

It is essential to follow the guidelines below while recovering after the bypass surgery.

Healthy diet – The patient should consume a healthy diet that is low in cholesterol and saturated and trans-fats. This can stop the build-up of plaque on artery walls.

Medications – Doctors prescribe the medications for promoting comfortable healing from the surgery and reducing the risk of future heart attacks. The medications generally prescribed include:

  • medicines to reduce cholesterol,
  • aspirin and antiplatelets to prevent blood clots,
  • ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers to regulate blood pressure, heart rate and cardiac remodelling.

Physical Activity – Physical activity should be gradually resumed by the patient and the advice of the physiotherapist may help gradual increase in exercise tolerance. For the first six weeks after surgery, the patient should not lift anything that is over 5 kg as the sternum (chest bone) will need time to heal. Walking is a good option for gradually increasing the activity level.

Cardiac Rehabilitation – Through Cardiac rehabilitation or rehab the patient can take up exercise under the supervision of a medical professional. It also involves psychological counselling, nutritional counselling, etc.

Diabetes Management – Patients with diabetes need to carefully manage their recovery in coordination with their doctors as diabetes contributes to cardiovascular disease.

Stress Management – Chronic stress is a risk factor leading to heart disease and hence must be managed carefully with a healthy lifestyle.

Improvement in Life – Improvement in quality of life after bypass gives the patient positive reinforcement towards life and patients are more receptive towards life style changes. Many quit smoking, alcohol and sedentary life style and start exercises and healthy dietary habits. 

Conclusion

As a leading arterial bypass Surgeon based in Delhi, Dr. Ramji Mehrotra is of the opinion that long-term recovery from bypass surgery involves managing the risk factors contributing to the cardiovascular disease. Though some risk factors like family history cannot be changed, others like healthy diet, medications, physical activity, and other lifestyle changes must be adopted for faster recovery and maintenance of good health.

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