In the latest episode of Abbott’s #MattersOfTheHeart series, host Karthik had a fascinating discussion with Dr. Praveer Aggarwal, Chairman, Cardiology at Escorts Heart Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi. The conversation focused on the growing importance of cardiovascular health amid the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) linked to changes in modern lifestyle.
Talking about CVD, Dr. Aggarwal first explained how heart disease affects Indians a decade earlier than the Western population. He said that people are having heart attacks prematurely (people in their 40s to 50s) and their heart muscles are losing some functionality. He further said that since the presentation of CVD is often a premature heart attack, which can also be fatal, caution should be taken early on.
He further talked about the preventive measures needed to maintain heart health and stressed the importance of a balanced, heart-healthy diet while discouraging the consumption of processed foods and tobacco products. He urged people to get their blood sugar levels checked as diabetes can lead to ischemic heart disease (CVD). Regular physical activity is also important, Dr. Aggarwal recommends at least 30 to 40 minutes of moderate exercise daily, especially for people with sedentary jobs. He also stressed the importance of taking periodic breaks from work for both mental and physical well-being.
They highlighted a compelling case of coronary heart disease in a 36-year-old patient, highlighting the important interplay between genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors. The patient’s family history of heart disease, coupled with a decade-long smoking habit, led to severe blockages (>90%) in all three major arteries, reducing his cardiac function by 50%. This clear example shows the need for early diagnosis and timely intervention.
progress in treatment
Dr. Aggarwal briefly explained about the various tests that help diagnose CVD. He spoke in detail on the difference between angiography and angioplasty as people commonly use these terms interchangeably.
He highlighted that angiography is an imaging technique used to view blood vessels and detect abnormalities, blockages or other issues. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the bloodstream and taking X-ray images, allowing doctors to see detailed images of the arteries. This helps pinpoint the exact location of any narrowed or blocked arteries.
On the other hand, Dr. Aggarwal said that angioplasty is a treatment procedure used to open narrowed or blocked arteries. This is often done after angiography detects a blockage. During angioplasty, a catheter with a small balloon at the tip is inserted into the blocked artery. Once in place, the balloon is inflated to press down the plaque deposits on the artery walls, thereby widening the vessel and restoring blood flow.
He further shared information about how stents work and what options are available to patients. Dr. Aggarwal said that stents are small, mesh-like tubes that are inserted into an artery during angioplasty to keep the vessel open. After the balloon dilates the artery, the stent is deployed, which provides structural support and prevents re-narrowing, known as restenosis. The stents are left in place permanently, as they act as a scaffold to maintain proper blood flow.
He further added that in 2001, drug-eluting stents (DES) were introduced, which significantly advanced the treatment of CVD. Before DES, bare-metal stents were commonly used, but they had high rates of restenosis (re-narrowing). DES helped reduce this complication by gradually releasing a drug that prevents uncontrolled growth of tissues within the stent.
Dr. Aggarwal also underlined the importance of coronary imaging in the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases. With advanced technologies such as intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography (OCT), doctors can more precisely guide angioplasty procedures, improving patient outcomes.
Therefore, for patients undergoing such procedures, Dr. Aggarwal assures that they can resume their lives without any limitations. Adhering to prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and making lifestyle modifications are important for long-term results. With advances in stent technology and minimally invasive techniques, the prognosis for patients today has significantly improved, allowing them to enjoy a quality of life that was previously considered unattainable after such procedures.
Dr. Aggarwal encouraged the audience to take a proactive approach to their heart health. Regular checkups are especially important for people who have a family history of heart disease. By recognizing risk factors and making informed lifestyle choices, individuals can effectively navigate their health care journey.
Note to reader: This article has been produced by HT Brand Studio on behalf of the brand and has no journalistic/editorial involvement with Hindustan Times.
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