Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases

Lifestyle Interventions

Lifestyle modifications form the crux of the treatment plan for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
Diet: Patients with CVDs are advised on dietary improvements such as reducing saturated and trans fats, salt and sugar intake, while increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of CVDs and positively impacts overall cardiovascular health.
Tobacco cessation and alcohol moderation are highly recommended, given their harmful impact on the heart.
Stress management techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation therapies may be beneficial.

Several classes of medications are used to manage CVDs, often in combination, tailored according to the patient’s specific condition and risk factors.
Antiplatelet agents like Aspirin or clopidogrel are used to prevent platelet aggregation and consequently, the formation of thromboxane, which can cause abnormal clotting.
Beta blockers are used to decrease the heart rate and blood pressure by inhibiting the effect of adrenaline on the cardiovascular system.
ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers reduce blood pressure by dilating arteries and veins.
Statins are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

Surgical interventions are elected for when pharmacological interventions and lifestyle modifications are not adequate in managing the disease.
Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), whereby a healthy blood vessel is taken from another part of the body and used to circumvent a blocked coronary artery.
Another popular surgical intervention is angioplasty where a blocked artery is opened using a balloon, and sometimes a stent is placed to maintain the artery’s openness.
Valve replacement surgeries are done when there is severe valve disease.

Rehabilitation programmes aid in improving the patient’s cardiovascular fitness, mental health, and overall wellbeing.
Adherence to medication regimens and continual monitoring of the disease status are crucial for sustained management of the disease.
Treatment of CVD requires a multidisciplinary approach, with clinicians, dietitians, physiotherapists, and pharmacists playing vital roles.
The management plan should be tailored and adjusted according to the progression of the disease.