Recently, there have been renewed concerns about cardiovascular health after the number of cardiac arrest cases has increased. Famous celebrities like Puneeth Rajkumar and Sidharth Shukla who were known as fitness enthusiasts fell prey to fatal heart attacks and their untimely deaths left their fans devastated. With several reports of heart attacks coming in, there are doubts and worries in people’s minds about the same. A recent study also found that COVID-19 has reduced the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, soaring the death rate from heart disease.
dr. Ganesh Nallur Shivu, a senior interventional cardiologist at Kauvery Hospitals Electronic City in Bengaluru, spoke to Indian Express about various aspects of heart health that are very essential for people to know.
He described heart failure as the inability of the heart to pump enough blood to vital organs of the body such as the brain and kidneys, with symptoms ranging from difficulty breathing when walking or other activities, lack of energy, fatigue, and swelling in the legs or abdominal muscle. . People who have had heart attacks, angioplasty, or bypass surgery in the past are more prone to heart failure, Dr. Shivu says. He also said that long-term uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes can also lead to heart failure. “Heart failure can also occur in young patients after a viral illness and this is called viral myocarditis or in patients with rheumatic heart disease,” he added.
EKG, echocardiogram, and blood tests are part of the diagnosis. While an echocardiogram is an ultrasound examination of the heart, blood tests are performed to rule out other causes of heart failure, such as kidney failure, liver failure, anemia, and thyroid problems. The doctor may prescribe diuretics or water tablets to help the body get rid of excess fluid, as well as other medications to help restore heart function.
Coronary artery bypass grafting, coronary angioplasty, and valve replacements are other options the doctor may suggest. In cases that are very serious, a heart transplant may be considered by medical experts.
Patients with heart disease can follow these tips to help themselves:
- Ensure proper intake of medications as prescribed.
- Exercise such as brisk walking can be considered, but not without consulting a doctor
- Minimize salt intake in meals
- Follow the doctor’s advice and limit daily fluid intake.
- Regular follow-up with the doctor is a must so that any deterioration in the condition of the heart does not go unnoticed
- Seek emergency medical help if their symptoms worsen.
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