New Breakthroughs in Heart Health

New Breakthroughs in Heart Health May be in Your Own Hands

by Shar Peters

Cardiovascular disease kills more Americans each year than any other disease, and for women it is the number one cause of death. What is being done about it? Probably more than you realize.

Medical researchers and institutions worldwide frequently tout new breakthroughs and medications that can prevent heart attacks and increase your heart’s function and quality of life.

•   At Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, some patients are receiving an infusion of their own stem cells in order to generate new heart tissue in their damaged heart. This procedure is proving successful in a small number of patients who suffered massive heart attacks that destroyed vital parts of their hearts.

•   Another promising treatment is a new implantable device, currently part of a nationwide clinical trial, that monitors pressure within the heart of a patient, allowing the doctor to regulate medication and treatment in a new way.

•   According to WebMD, paramedics in San Antonio, Texas, are doing saliva testing on heart attack patients while en route to the hospital. This test analyzes the proteins in the patient’s system, allowing more expedient and effective treatment upon arrival at the emergency room.

•   Aspirin therapy was once a new medical finding. Now, the use of aspirin for the prevention and treatment of cardiac disease and strokes in certain people is widely used.

Breakthroughs are breaking the gender barrier. According to Dr. Charles Pettus, a cardiologist at Piedmont Heart Institute with local offices in Fayetteville and Sharpsburg, ten to twenty years ago cardiac studies were done primarily on men. The medical field has come to realize that heart disease symptoms, testing and treatment may not be the same for both sexes. This has resulted in more studies involving women.

While breakthroughs in treatment and prevention of heart issues are often stellar and offer hope to many victims of cardiovascular disease, the biggest breakthrough for your heart health may be in your own hands and under your own control.

Most people are aware that they need to quit smoking, eat healthy, exercise and maintain a healthy weight. However, there are other things you can do to increase your heart health and longevity.

•   First, become educated. There are local classes and online sites that offer the latest information about adopting a healthy lifestyle and heart-healthy diet. Learn how to cook healthy meals and how to make wise choices when dining out. Read the latest health information and findings. Know what the medical community is studying and what they are recommending.

•   Get moving! Join a gym or an exercise class or simply get out of your chair and walk. Find an exercise partner. Studies show that people who exercise with others are more accountable. There are classes specifically designed for people who are unable to participate in traditional classes or activities due to physical limitations or age. Seek these out.

•   Decrease your salt intake. Many people think the advice to limit salt is for people who battle high blood pressure. This is true, but it is also true that increased salt can make your heart and kidneys work harder if you are sodium-sensitive. Limit processed food. They’re usually high in sodium. Refrain from adding salt during cooking and dining. Throw the salt shaker out!

•   Limit refined sugar. Foods like milk and fruit contain natural sugars and are a vital energy source (glucose) for your body. The refined sugars that come from processed foods may create a health problem. The U.S. Department of Agriculture dietary guidelines state that added sugars should be limited to 8 teaspoons per day. The average American consumes more than 20 teaspoons of sugar per day, which also translates to excess calories. A diet high in sugar and calories can lead to obesity and to diabetes, making heart disease more likely. Foods high in sugar also tend to be high in fat, increasing heart health risks.

While medical breakthroughs are often lifesaving and life extending, don’t bet your life on them. Take charge and do the things that are most beneficial to your overall health. After all, the person most responsible for you—is you.