Ischaemic Heart Disease

Millions of people die in America due to heart attacks which are caused due to Ischaemic (Ischemic) heart disease (IHD), also known as Coronary Artery disease (CAD).

Overview
Ischaemic Heart Disease occurs when heart doesn’t get sufficient oxygen and blood; due to this heart muscles get damaged. This causes when plaque is formed on the walls of the arteries. Plaque narrows the space for blood to flow smoothly. Sometimes the plaque can break off. This could be very dangerous because this could cause blood clotting and would completely block your arteries which will eventually cause Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction).

Causes
Lack of exercise, smoking, fat diets, stress, family history, diabetes, high blood pressure are some of the major causes of Ischaemic Heart Disease. After menopause women are vulnerable to IHD because of deficiency of estrogen hormone in them.

Symptoms
Until it becomes severe and fatal, hardly any symptoms occur. However, fatigue, tiredness, breathlessness may be the warning signs of Ischaemic Heart Disease.

Prevention & Treatments
Ischaemic Heart Disease can be prevented by regular exercise. Exercise causes your blood to flow speedily in your body due to which toxins and cholesterol are removed from your body and plaque formation is prevented. When no plaque will be formed, blood will not be blocked. Hence Ischaemic Heart Disease will hardly occur.

Patients who are suffering from high blood pressure or diabetes or both should not do vigorous exercise otherwise it may lead to angina (chest pain) which can result in heart attack. You should increase your speed gradually. It is recommended that you should start slow walking for a few months. Slow walk for 30 minutes daily will give you great relief from Ischaemic Heart Disease. If you walk twice a day (in the morning and in the evening) even for 15-20 minutes each time, it would be much better.

You should drink plenty of water and eat fresh fruits. You must eat at least one fruit rich in Vitamin C daily. Consumption of lemon juice in a glass of water daily will help your blood move in the arteries without any obstruction. Eat raw garlic daily to prevent Ischaemic Heart Disease.

As its treatment, balloon angioplasty can be incorporated. In serious condition, bypass surgery is done. Other treatments are also given such as nitrates, beta-blockers, calcium channel antagonists and anti-platelet drugs. At the last stage heart transplant is also done.