Treating heart disease can involve a range of approaches, from lifestyle changes to long-term medications and surgery.
Youre trying to prevent something like heart failure or stroke in the future, says Dr. Majure.
But 10 years before that event happens, [you] might feel okay.
A doctors role in prescribing heart disease medication involves helping people understand the end goal, says Majure.
Some people may experience side effects with these medications, so understanding how they work is key.
Its not just bringing that blood pressure number down.
Its trying to prevent something in the future, says Majure.
Antiplatelet agents
Antiplatelet agents prevent the formation of blood clots by stopping platelets in the blood from clumping together.
Cholesterol-lowering medications
Cholesterol-lowering medications decrease levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood.
Anticoagulants areblood-thinning medicationsthat help prevent harmful blood clots from forming or growing.
Doctors might prescribe ARBs to people with heart failure and high blood pressure.
They also help lower blood pressure, so the heart doesnt have to work as hard.
A healthcare professional may prescribecalcium channel blockersto treat angina, arrhythmias, or high blood pressure.
Statins are the most common medication doctors prescribe in this class.
Other options are often only prescribed when statins cause severe side effects or dont work as intended.
Sometimes, a doctor performs these surgeries as emergency procedures.
Recovery time after a graft can vary.
It really depends on the individual and their condition.
Anything that gets people moving is beneficial, he says.
Unfortunately, as a society, we dont move enough.
Cardiac rehab is really important, says Majure.
Its a coordinated program, usually about 36 sessions, where people go a few times a week.
The goal is to rehabilitate the heart and the rest of the body, which often atrophies during illness.
This holistic approach helps the person regain their full capacity.
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Majure suggests rehabilitation through a formal outpatient program as the best route.
At-home recovery could work if theres access to high-level physical therapy.
However, left to their own devices, most people wont fully rehabilitate, he says.
Were trying to prevent frailty and ensure people regain their optimal health and capacity.
However, he recommends consulting a pharmacist before using herbal remedies, due to potential interactions with other medications.
For example, St. Johns wort can alter the levels of certain medications in the blood, he says.
Since herbs are active compounds, they can increase or decrease medication effects, depending on the interaction.
Always ensure these are safe and wont cause harm.
Majure also says that taking dietary supplements for heart disease might not be helpful.
Many supplements dont help and can be a waste of money.
If there are no harmful drug interactions and someone feels strongly about taking them, I wont discourage it.
However, I caution against spending excessively on products without clear evidence of benefit.
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