Alternative Therapies for Coronary Artery Disease
A variety of medications and lifestyle changes may help reduce your risk of heart disease, including cholesterol drugs such as statins, niacin, fibrates and bile acid sequestrants. These medications can help thin the blood and prevent clots in the arteries. They also can lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate.
A doctor might order a medical test called an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram to check your heart. These tests show how well the heart is working and can detect blockages that need treatment. A heart catheter may be inserted into the blood vessel to make X-rays or dye flow through it and show any blockages. If you have an artery blockage that needs treatment, your doctor might use a tube called a stent to open the artery and keep it from blocking again.
Exercise and a healthy diet are important for preventing heart disease and treating it if you have it. Exercising helps control weight, high cholesterol and diabetes, all of which are risk factors for coronary artery disease. Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fats, trans fats and salt can also help.
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and yoga, are another way to help keep your heart healthy. They can provide relaxation, improve circulation and improve your overall mood.
Other types of alternative treatments include massage, weight loss programs, relaxation techniques and multivitamins. These treatments might be helpful in reducing the pain of heart-related symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and fatigue.
Research on the effects of alternative treatments on patients with a history of heart disease is limited, and there is a need for studies that evaluate the safety and efficacy of these types of alternative therapies in people with heart disease.
CAM modalities are used by a growing number of people to treat a wide range of health conditions. However, CAM remains largely unregulated and clinical evidence of its efficacy and safety for heart failure is limited.
The results of a recent survey conducted among outpatients attending a cardiology clinic indicate that some patients have a strong interest in participating in future clinical trials assessing the effectiveness of alternative therapies for healthcare, particularly for mind-body alternatives such as massage and weight loss programs. In addition, some patients report a preference for using CAM modalities as part of their current CVD treatment regimens.
Regardless of your age or the type of cardiovascular condition you have, it is important to stay active and eat a balanced, healthy diet. You should also avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help you live longer and feel better.
