Clinical Implications for Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease Management

Introduction

The blood flow to the heart can be influenced by various factors like age and the medical condition of an individual. Poor blood flow may result in heart attack and serious health complications. Properly evaluating and diagnosing heart disorders is crucial to ensure a healthy heart. This article briefly explains the consequences of ischemic heart disease management and its clinical implications.

What Is Ischemia?

The blood is transported throughout the body via the blood vessels, which include arteries and veins. When there is a gradual or sudden block in the blood flow, the oxygen to the specific region gets disrupted. Every cell in the body depends on oxygen for its survival. The absence of oxygen can affect important organs like the heart and brain which play an important role in controlling the voluntary and involuntary movements of an individual. Ischemia refers to diminished blood flow due to blockage of the blood vessels.

What Are the Types of Ischemia?

Ischemia can be of various types depending on the affected part of the body that has decreased blood supply. Some of the common types are listed below

• Cardiac ischemia.

• Cerebral ischemia.

• Focal ischemia.

• Global ischemia.

• Mesenteric ischemia.

• Cutaneous ischemia.

• Critical limb ischemia.

What Are the Signs of Ischemia?

The common signs of ischemia are mentioned below

• Chest pain.

• Shortness of breath

• Sweating.

• Fatigue.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Dizziness.

• Lightheadedness.

• Neck pain.

What Causes Chronic Ischemia?

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of ischemia. It refers to the hardening of arteries due to plaque or fat deposits within the arterial walls that diminish the constant blood flow. Other causes contributing to chronic ischemia include

• Low blood pressure.

• Heart attack.

• Shock.

• Congenital heart defects.

• Sickle cell anemia.

• Blood clots.

• Anemia.

• Compression of blood vessels.

• Tumor.

• Rupture of blood vessels.

Is Heart Ischemia Serious?

Any damage to the heart or the surrounding structures may affect the blood flow resulting in serious complications. The complete block of the coronary artery may lead to a heart attack and may destroy a part of the heart muscle. Sometimes, the condition may become fatal and has to be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

How Is Heart Ischemia Diagnosed?

A thorough history and physical examination are mandatory to understand the severity of the condition and treat it accordingly. In addition, a few diagnostic aids also help to treat the condition which is mentioned below.

1. Doppler Ultrasound - It is a non-invasive method that helps estimate the blood flow through various organs. It helps to identify the block at any site and the size of the block which is helpful in treatment planning. It uses high-frequency sound waves, to produce images of the internal structures.

2. Computerized Tomography Angiogram - A computerized tomography angiogram is an advanced diagnostic tool that is similar to an X-ray. Just like the X-ray, it produces images, which can be viewed through

3. Blood Test - A blood test is indicated to identify any alteration in the blood content, specifically the lipid profile, and the hemoglobin is evaluated. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen, any structural alterations may cause an oxygen deficit. In addition, lipid profile tests help to identify the cholesterol levels in blood circulation. In case of high cholesterol, medications to lower it and a few exercises will be advised by the healthcare professional.

4. Echocardiogram - It is the measure of the heart rhythm, which is monitored by placing electrodes. Any alterations in the heart may indicate cardiac abnormalities. The procedure is non-invasive and roughly takes about one hour. It visualizes the arterial walls supplying the heart. After the procedure is done, the results are generally available within one day.

5. Cardiac Catheterization - It is a safe procedure to evaluate the heart’s health. A contrast dye is injected through the artery, and the dye traces the arterial walls which helps to identify if there are any obstructions. Some individuals may experience minor bruising during the procedure, which heals eventually. After the procedure, it is important to consume plenty of water to eliminate the dye from the body.

What Are the Clinical Implications of Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease Management?

Improving blood flow to the heart muscles and restoring heart functions are essential for a healthy life. According to a few epidemiological studies, the exact prevalence of ischemic heart disease may vary with different geographic and demographic populations. It is a major health concern in adults, especially in the United States. It was the leading cause of death in males and females. In addition, surviving with modern therapies has proved that elderly patients above 80 years of age are highly susceptible to coronary artery disease.

How Is Chronic Ischemia Treated?

Depending on the age and degree of severity, the condition may be treated with medications like Aspirin, Nitrates, and beta-blockers which help to maintain the pressure levels and ensure a smooth flow of blood. In addition, antiplatelet drugs help to prevent the blood from clotting. Hence it is essential to inform the doctors before undergoing any surgical procedure, to avoid severe blood loss. Carrying the prescription can help doctors recommend drugs that do not interact with other drugs or have harmful effects when used in combination.

In some cases, open heart surgery may be required to remove the block or fatty deposits which do not heal with medication. In cases of weak arteries, a stent may be placed to keep the arteries dilated, which helps with blood flow. The blood vessels are muscular structures that have openings to carry and transport blood and other nutrients that are crucial for the cell. After the surgical procedure, the patient is monitored for a few days, to ensure there are no post-surgical complications. In case of any allergy or emergency, it is important to report it to the health care professional at the earliest possible.

Conclusion

The clinical implications for chronic ischemic heart disease management involve thoroughly evaluating the patient’s age and health conditions before planning the treatment. The prognosis of the condition varies with each individual, however, taking medications regularly and following a healthy diet helps with the success of the treatment. Walking and regularly exercising can prevent the risk of cardiac diseases and may restore a healthy life.