Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It occurs when the coronary arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to plaque build-up. Early and accurate detection of CAD is crucial for effective management and prevention of severe complications such as heart attacks. One of the most reliable diagnostic tools for CAD is Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI), a type of nuclear cardiology test that assesses blood flow to the heart muscle.

What is Myocardial Perfusion Imaging?
Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that evaluates the blood supply to the heart muscle both at rest and under stress. It uses a small amount of radioactive tracer, such as technetium-99m or thallium-201, which is injected into the bloodstream. A gamma camera detects the radiation emitted by the tracer, producing images of the heart that help identify areas with inadequate blood flow.

How MPI Detects Coronary Artery Disease
MPI is particularly effective in diagnosing CAD because it can reveal areas of the heart that receive reduced blood supply due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. The test is performed in two phases:
• Resting Phase – The patient receives the tracer injection while at rest, and images are taken to assess baseline blood flow to the heart.
• Stress Phase – The patient undergoes physical exercise on a treadmill or receives a pharmacologic stress agent (such as adenosine or dobutamine) to simulate the effects of exercise. The tracer is injected again, and additional images are captured.
By comparing the rest and stress images, doctors can determine if there are any areas of reduced blood flow, which is indicative of coronary artery disease.

Key Benefits of MPI in CAD Detection
• Early Diagnosis – MPI can detect CAD before symptoms such as chest pain (angina) appear.
• Assessing Severity – The test helps determine the extent and severity of coronary artery blockages.
• Guiding Treatment Decisions – MPI results help doctors decide whether a patient requires lifestyle modifications, medications, angioplasty, or coronary bypass surgery.
• Evaluating Treatment Effectiveness – After treatment, MPI can assess whether blood flow has improved.
• Predicting Future Cardiac Events – MPI provides valuable prognostic information on a patient’s risk of heart attack or other cardiac events.
• Non-Invasive – Unlike coronary angiography, MPI does not require inserting a catheter into the heart.
• High Sensitivity and Specificity – It provides accurate detection of CAD and assessment of blood flow abnormalities.

How MPI Assesses Blood Flow to the Heart
MPI is instrumental in assessing myocardial perfusion in several key ways:
• Detecting Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – MPI helps identify narrowed or blocked coronary arteries by revealing areas of the heart that receive insufficient blood supply during stress.
• Evaluating the Severity of Ischemia – The test differentiates between mild and severe ischemia, helping physicians determine the urgency and type of intervention needed.
• Assessing Myocardial Viability – MPI can detect whether heart tissue is still viable and capable of recovery following a heart attack or if it has sustained irreversible damage.
• Monitoring Treatment Effectiveness – Physicians use MPI to assess the success of treatments such as medication, angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass surgery.
• Predicting Future Cardiac Events – The test provides valuable prognostic information, helping to estimate a patient’s risk of future heart attacks or cardiac complications.

When Should You Get a Myocardial Perfusion Scan?

• Symptoms Suggestive of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): If you experience symptoms such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, or unexplained dizziness, your doctor may suggest an MPS to determine whether your heart is receiving adequate blood supply.
• Abnormal Results from Other Tests: If an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or stress test shows abnormalities suggesting insufficient blood flow to the heart, an MPS can provide more detailed information about which areas of the heart are affected.
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Previous Treatments: Patients who have undergone treatments such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), angioplasty, or stent placement may need an MPS to assess the success of these procedures and ensure adequate blood flow is maintained.
• Determining the Severity of Coronary Blockages: If coronary artery disease has already been diagnosed, an MPS can help determine how severe the blockages are and whether further interventions, such as surgery or medication adjustments, are necessary.
• Pre-Surgical Evaluation for Non-Cardiac Surgery: For patients with risk factors for heart disease, an MPS may be required before undergoing major surgeries (e.g., orthopedic or abdominal surgeries) to evaluate cardiac function and ensure the heart can withstand the stress of the procedure.
• Assessing Heart Function in Patients with Previous Heart Attacks: If you have had a heart attack, an MPS can evaluate how well the heart muscle is functioning and identify any areas that may have been permanently damaged.
• Monitoring High-Risk Individuals: Individuals with multiple risk factors for heart disease—such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, or a strong family history of CAD—may undergo an MPS to detect potential heart problems early, even if they are asymptomatic.

Myocardial Perfusion Imaging is a highly effective tool for detecting coronary artery disease. By assessing blood flow to the heart under both rest and stress conditions, MPI helps identify blockages that could lead to serious heart complications. Its ability to guide treatment decisions and predict future cardiac events makes it a crucial component of modern cardiology. If you are at risk for CAD, consult doctor to see if MPI is right for you.

Leadership and Expertise

Dr. Murali R. Nadig, a prominent figure in nuclear medicine and PETCT, serves as the Medical Director of NewMed Diagnostics in Bangalore. With a medical degree from Mysore and post-graduation from AIIMS, Delhi, Dr. Nadig brings extensive expertise to the center. NewMed Diagnostics is notable for being the first and only nuclear medicine, PETCT, and radio nuclear facility in the state, leading the field for the past four years.

The combination of advanced technology, skilled technicians, and direct involvement of doctors at NewMed Diagnostics Center underscores its commitment to providing top-tier diagnostic services, ensuring precise disease detection and effective treatment.

For more information, please contact:
NewMedd Diagnostics
Bengaluru
No. 110, KH Road (Double Road), Land Mark: Next to Suzuki Show Room, Sudhama Nagara, Bengaluru – 560027  Ph: 080-2222 4050 / 94812 12244
Mysuru
No 59, 3rd main, Behind Akashavani, Yadavagiri, Mysuru – 20
Ph 70268 22682 / 70267 22672

The post How Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Helps Detect CAD appeared first on Health Vision.

ACS encompasses a group of diseases characterized by a sudden reduction in blood flow to the heart, including ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina (UA). These conditions typically result from the narrowing and disruption of coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis. The rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque can lead to partial or complete artery blockage, resulting in diminished oxygen supply to the heart muscles, which can manifest as angina or myocardial infarction (heart attack).

ACS is associated with high morbidity and mortality and can be caused by various mechanisms, including plaque rupture with inflammation, plaque rupture without inflammation leading to fibrin-rich red thrombi formation, plaque erosion resulting in non-ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, and ACS without thrombus affecting both epicardial arteries and coronary microcirculation.

Modern lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, increased incidence of diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia contribute to the high rates of ACS. Additionally, a family history of coronary artery disease is a significant risk factor.

Common symptoms of ACS include substernal chest pain, radiating to the shoulders, arms, upper abdomen, back, neck, and jaw, although other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, lightheadedness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, nausea, epigastric pain, extreme anxiety, and weakness may also be present.

Diagnostic tools such as electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, coronary angiogram, computed tomography angiography (CTA), myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), and blood tests are utilized to aid in the diagnosis of ACS. Maintaining a high degree of suspicion and vigilance is crucial during the diagnostic process.

Treatment of ACS depends on the type (STEMI/NSTEMI or unstable angina) and requires timely intervention. An inter-professional team comprising emergency department physicians, cardiologists, internists, pharmacists, and primary caregivers is essential for optimal management. Public awareness and recognition of symptoms are also vital in ensuring timely treatment.

Furthermore, public education regarding lifestyle modifications, including smoking cessation, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and adopting a healthy diet, plays a crucial role in controlling the high mortality associated with ACS. These preventive measures contribute significantly to mitigating the impact of this disease.

Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath
Senior Consultant Interventional
Cardiologist,
Tathagat Heart Care centre,
32/60, 2nd main Vyalikaval,
Next to Canara bank, Bangalore 03
Ph 080-23462515 Mb: 94484 62883
http://tathagathearthospital.com/

The post Acute Coronary Syndrome – Diagnosis and Management appeared first on Health Vision.

Medically Cyanosis is an unusual bluish, greyish, or purple colour of the skin and mucous membranes, which is normally found around the lips, fingernails, mouth or palms. This is caused due to inadequate level of oxygen in the blood. Oxygen delivery is measured on the basis of cardiac output and arterial oxygen content. Normally about 98% of oxygen is bound to haemoglobin (approx. – 1.34 mL per 1 g of haemoglobin) and only 2% is dissolved in plasma (approx. 0.003 mL of oxygen per 100 mL of plasma).

Blood is red in colour because of presence of oxygen in the blood. This keeps the skin tone in pink or red tinge. If the blood does not have sufficient oxygen it carries waste carbon dioxide from cells and lungs, which is obviously dark in colour. This makes bluish ting on skin so it must be addressed immediately.

It is seen in new-borns with lung and breathing problems, heart defects (if it allows blood that is not fully oxygenated to pass through arterial circulation) and respiratory distress syndrome. It can also appear at any time later in life when there is insufficient oxygen supply to the blood.

Cyanosis are of two types – Central Cyanosis happens due to heart and lung disorders and unusual forms of haemoglobin (methaemoglobin and sulfhemoglobin in the blood).  Peripheral Cyanosis happens due to reduced blood flow to the peripheral parts (fingers, toes and nail beds) of the body.

The typical symptoms of cyanosis are a bluish, greyish, or purplish colour of the lips, fingers, and toes. This is caused when oxygen content in the blood falls below 85%. Standard oxygen level in the blood range between 95% to 100%, which means we may not notice cyanosis until the oxygen level in the blood drips significantly.

Seek medical help immediately if you have chest pain, frequent headaches, fever, breathing difficulty, unable to take a deep breath, cough up dark or blood-tinged mucus. Cyanosis is a serious disease, so if untreated it may lead to major complications and permanent damages like gangrene, ulceration, heart or respiratory failure, loss of limb and sepsis.

 Cyanosis is triggered by a wide variety of health issues like – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary hypertension, pneumonia, respiratory tract infection, asthma, congestive heart failure, Raynaud’s phenomenon, epiglottitis, hypothermia, seizures, suffocation and overdose of drugs.

It is difficult to assess cyanosis because level of haemoglobin varies even for jaundice, anaemia and even with skin colour. However, bluish, greyish, or purplish colour skin is typically a sign of cyanosis. Doctor diagnosis by physical examination and by listening to heart and lungs. Apart from that other clinical tests like arterial blood gas analysis (ABG), blood oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry, duplex doppler or venography, complete blood count (CBC), electrocardiogram or echocardiogram, digital subtraction angiography, chest X-ray, chest computed tomography (CT) scan, ECG and ventilation-perfusion scan or pulmonary angiography tests will help doctors to diagnose cyanosis.

Timely treatment and medications can help to prevent more complications. For cyanosis patient’s oxygen therapy should be given immediately. Further treatments like heat therapy (applying mild heat to the affected areas), antidepressants and antihypertensive medications (for peripheral cyanosis to relax blood vessels), antibiotics or antivirals and surgical treatments depending on the patient’s conditions. Doctors may stop certain medications, if patient is consuming, like decongestants, birth control pills, beta-blockers and migraine medicines because these may add to the complications.

Lifestyle modifications and some preventive steps like avoiding products that has caffeine and nicotine may prove to be helpful. If you are having heart ailments avoid going to high altitudes (like mountain) or take oxygen cylinders while going. Also avoid going to places having extreme temperature. Regular Mild exercise and reduced stress is very beneficial.

Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath
Senior Consultant Interventional
Cardiologist,
Tathagat Heart Care centre,
32/60, 2nd main Vyalikaval,
Next to Canara bank, Bangalore 03
Ph 080-23462515 Mb: 94484 62883
http://tathagathearthospital.com/

The post Blue Hue: Understanding Cyanosis and Oxygen Insufficiency in the Blood appeared first on Health Vision.

Cholesterol and heart:

The balance between good and bad cholesterol is significant for cardiovascular and stroke problems. Cholesterol is a very common problem due to genetic factors, lack of physical activity and bad diet. The probability of dying from heart ailment in young people increases with increase in cholesterol level. Indians usually have low HDL (good cholesterol) which increases risk of heart illness. People who live for more than 100 years of age, often have very high HDL.

Diabetes and heart:

Diabetes is one of the strongest contributors to heart disease. Type 2 diabetes, if not treated on time may cause heart attacks, stroke, blindness, and limb loss. Unhealthy diet like processed carbohydrates, fast foods, genetic factors are the leading cause of diabetes.

BP and heart:

Hypertension (high BP) is a silent killer and it is a strongest risk factor for heart ailments. Lifestyle changes may help to have control on BP. Exercise regularly, reduce salt intake, eat more fruits and vegetables, avoid processed food and alcohol for healthy life.

Stress /Depression and heart:

Both stress and depression are related to heart ailment. Increased stress and depression leads to almost three-fold increase in heart attacks, stroke, and sudden death. Stress, anger and depression increases inflammatory hormones (cortisol and epinephrine) in the blood. This may lead to blood clot (thrombosis)and thus create heart problems. Further, depression is linked with diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

Women and Heart

Women who had repeated miscarriages are at high risk for heart illness. Metabolic syndrome (high lipids, abdominal obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure) is a indicator for heart disease. Standard risk factors include high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, diabetes, family history of heart disease, hypertension (BP), lack of physical activity, and tobacco smoking. In fact, smoking and diabetes has high risk for women than in men.

Crucial facts about heart disease

• As per demographic statistics Heart diseases percentage among Indians is twice to that of western world. This is due to genetic factors and other lifestyle practises like junk food, red meat, stress etc
• India has high percent of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and smoking (major risk factors for Heart ailments).
• As per Public health estimates India accounts for nearly 60% of the world’s heart disease.
• Heart disease is the leading cause of death in India, approximately it claims three million lives every year.
• Indian women have high percent of death from heart ailments.

Nutritional factors play a significant role to control heart illness. Three special risk factors that are not commonly spoken about: Lipoprotein (a), Homocysteine, and C-reactive protein account for 40% of Indians risk factors for cardiac illness.

A well balanced, healthy diet, positive lifestyle changes (exercise, walking, stress reduction techniques, control of hypertension and diabetes), meditation, yoga, quitting smoking and alcohol may reduce the heart illness. Finally, everyone needs good and sound sleep – at least 8 hours of sleep at night which revitalizes the mind and body.

Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath
Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist
Tathagat Heart Hospital at Mallige Medical Centre premises
No. 31/32, Crescent Road, Bengaluru – 01
Phone : 080- 2235 7777 | 99003 56000
E-mail: mahanteshrc67@gmail.com
http://tathagathearthospital.com/

The post Understanding Cardiovascular Disease – Causes and Prevention appeared first on Health Vision.

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) talks about a group of diseases in which there will be sudden reduction in blood flow to the heart. ACS includes ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina (UA).

These are usually caused by narrowing and plaque disruption in the coronary arteries (atherosclerosis). Rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque can lead to partial or complete blockage of the artery. This clot hampers the blood flow to heart muscles and thus reduces supply of oxygen. This leads to uneven angina or a complete blockage and consequential myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Coronary heart disease and acute coronary syndrome remain predominant and the top cause of death in people over age group of 35 years. ACS is associated with very high morbidity and mortality.

ACS are caused by varied mechanisms, in particular:

• Plaque rupture with inflammation – usually both local and systemic inflammation
• Plaque rupture without inflammation – leads to the formation of fibrin-rich red thrombi.
• Plaque erosion leading to non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction.
• ACS without thrombus – epicardial arteries and also affect coronary microcirculation

Modern fast paced lifestyle, smoking, poor nutritional practices, increased incidence of diabetes; obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia have been attributed for the high rates of acute coronary syndrome. A family history is also a high-risk factor.

The usual symptoms are substernal chest pain, often defined as crushing, tightness, pressure, aching or burning. Usually it starts radiating from the chest to the shoulders, arms, upper abdomen, back, neck and jaw. This usual symptom is not seen always, and the other chief complaints are difficulty breathing, light-headedness, fast and irregular heartbeat, nausea, epigastric pain, extreme anxiety and weakness.  This highlights the role of the inter professional team to treat patients.

Electrocardiogram (ECG), Echocardiogram is a non-invasive test, Coronary angiogram, Computed tomography angiography (CTA), Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI is an imaging technique widely used for diagnosis) and Blood tests are performed to aid in the diagnosis of ACS.

It is important to maintain a high degree of suspicion and vigilance while diagnosing patients with possible ACS. Treatment of ACS depends on whether it is a STEMI /NSTEMI or unstable angina. But a critical aspect is timely treatment and is best managed by an inter-professional team that includes the emergency department physician, cardiologist, internist, pharmacist, and primary caregivers. Beside this, public awareness and recognition of symptoms are vital.

Another important element of controlling ACS is public education about lifestyle modification and awareness of healthier life choices. Including cessation of smoking, maintain a healthy body weight, excise regularly and have healthy diet. These precaution and practices can aid in controlling this high mortality disease.

Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath
Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist
Tathagat Heart Hospital at Mallige Medical Centre premises
No. 31/32, Crescent Road, Bengaluru – 01
Phone : 080- 2235 7777 | 99003 56000
E-mail: mahanteshrc67@gmail.com
http://tathagathearthospital.com/

The post Acute Coronary Syndromes : Diagnosis and management appeared first on Health Vision.

Heat stress can lead to severe health effects due to acute exacerbation of existing illnesses. Heat exposure also places an increased strain on the heart and can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke if the internal body temperature is not adequately regulated by the cardiovascular system. The cold causes blood vessels to contract, which can raise blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Angina, or chest pain due to coronary heart disease, can also worsen in winter when coronary arteries constrict in the cold.

Excessive heat

Excessive heat can cause increased sweating leading to water loss from the body and dehydration. Due to this, the volume of plasma reduces, the concentration of blood components (red blood cells) rises and if accompanied by high cholesterol, can potentially lead to blockages in the heart vessels causing a heart attack. Heat, especially heat waves can also increase the blood pressure, cause faster and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) which can cause strokes and heart attacks. The amount of oxygen needed for the heart is higher leading to symptoms of chest pain, breathlessness and loss of consciousness.”

It usually affects elderly above the age of 65 years. As we age, the exercise capacity of the heart is reduced, preexisting diseases like high cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes are also present in the majority of them. This in turn increases the risk. Most healthy people tolerate weather changes well.

People with a previously diagnosed heart condition, uncontrolled diabetes, high cholesterol or hypertension may not readily accommodate to harsh weather. Also, people who are on medications to remove excessive fluid from the body (diuretics) are at a higher risk as they can be exposed to dehydration. Go slow. Do not exercise outdoors in extreme weather conditions. If you exercise, drink adequate fluids and keep yourself hydrated. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake. Regular bath and shower or an ice pack if needed. Eat small and light meals.

Extreme cold weather

Extreme cold weather can also put pressure on your heart. The blood vessels respond to severe cold by becoming narrower (constriction). This increases blood pressure and decreases blood circulation. Cold weather can increase your heart rate leading to an increase in oxygen demand.  If there is an associated infection due to the cold temperature, it puts an additional strain on the heart. Risk factors – are similar to heat wave risk factors itself.

Wear multiple layers of warm clothing to maintain your temperature. Avoid outdoor exercise. Avoid high fat food, avoid smoking. Consume hot soups and warm meals. Stay active indoors. If you have symptoms of chest pain, giddiness, breathlessness or fast heart rate (palpitations), please consult a doctor. You may not be having a heart attack but there might be symptoms of heat or cold intolerance which can be treated on time.

Dr. Divya Marina Fernandes

Consultant – Heart Failure Specialist & Interventional Cardiologist

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India has a high prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which can be lowered by regular physical activity.  20% and 37% of the population in India are not active or mildly active, respectively, and thus 57% of the surveyed population do not meet the physical activity regimen recommended by the World Health Organization. This puts a large Indian population at risk of developing various NCDs, which are being increasingly reported to be vulnerable to COVID-19 infections.

Even more sobering:

Many adults don’t get any activity at all, aside from what they need to make it through the day. And as we age, more and more of us stop moving.  While you likely know that long-term inactivity weakens your bones, muscles and nerves, you may not realize that it can damage your heart and brain, too. This, in turn, raises your odds of dementia and heart disease, among other conditions, and can lead to early death.

But research suggests that getting exercise can help keep these organs healthy and delay or prevent their decline. And if you regularly work up a sweat over a number of years? All the better.

How exercise benefits the heart…

As you progress through middle age, your heart gradually begins to weaken. Its walls get thicker and less flexible, and your arteries become stiffer. This raises your risk for high blood pressure (hypertension) and other heart problems, including heart attack and heart failure. And if you’re sedentary, that risk goes up even more.

When you exercise, your heart beats faster, increasing blood flow and supplying your body with necessary oxygen. The more you work out, the stronger your heart gets and the more elastic your blood vessels become. This helps you maintain a lower blood pressure and decreases your chances of developing many cardiovascular problems.

It’s aerobic exercise (also called cardio) that really does the trick. Research suggests that consistent, long-term moderate or vigorous cardio training may be most helpful, though any physical activity promotes good heart health. “It can be anything like brisk walk, running, cycling, swimming and yoga – “Anything that builds up that heart rate.”

Getting in shape benefits your heart in other ways, too, by helping to neutralize the risk factors linked to heart disease. Exercise is associated with:

• A reduction in inflammation.
• An increase in HDL (“good” cholesterol) and decrease in LDL (“bad” cholesterol).
• Maintaining a healthy weight and staving off obesity.

And though more studies are needed, research increasingly shows that exercise can boost your heart health, no matter your age.

How exercise benefits the brain…

What’s good for your heart is generally good for your brain – and research shows, breaking a sweat on a regular basis can boost brain health in several ways.

First, exercise is tied to improved cognition, which includes better memory, attention and executive function—things like controlling emotions and completing tasks. It can enhance the speed with which you process and react to information, too, along with your capacity to draw knowledge and experiences from your past.

Getting physical is also linked to slower age-related cognitive decline, where we gradually lose our thinking, focus and memory skills. In other words, “if you like where you are, it’s a good idea to continue to exercise because that may at least help you retain your current cognitive function.”

And though the jury is still out on whether it improves symptoms, exercise may help prevent or delay dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. For example, one 2017 review in The Journals of Gerontology: Biological Sciences found that activity was associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s down the line. The link was strongest for people who purposely exercised in their spare time, rather than those who had physically active jobs. This suggests mental benefits may depend on your chosen activity, in addition to the time you put into it.

Also Read: Do you know the best ways to cut down the risk of Alzheimer’s Dementia?

How does exercise do all this?

Scientists aren’t completely sure. It’s the thought that working out improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, helping it function better. Some research indicates it prevents shrinkage of the hippocampus – the part of the brain crucial for learning and remembering things. Experts also believe it stimulates chemical activity in the brain that could contribute to better cognition.

Finally, exercise may help lower your chances of developing other conditions connected to dementia, including cardiovascular disease.

When can you start?

No matter our age, pretty much all of us can gain from exercise. There is evidence to suggest that doing more vigorous exercise earlier in life is more beneficial, but it’s never too late to start because everyone benefits from doing some sort of movement or physical activity.

In addition to its rewards for the heart and brain, working out:

• Boosts your mood and energy.
• Helps prevent internal injuries.
• Lowers your risk of other diseases associated with aging, like arthritis, diabetes and hypertension.
• Helps you remain independent.

“Ayurveda – The science of life”, believes in following disciplined daily regimen (dinacharya) and seasonal regimen (rutucharya) to enhance the quality and quantity of life. Vyayama (physical exercises) are an integral part of our daily regimen, and Ayurveda strictly advises exercises to half of our strength. Exercising beyond our capability causes more stress to the cardiac system and might lead to sudden collapse (syncope / death).

However, it is not advisable to begin tough exercises after 45 and it is always good to get trained before any exercise because, “how to exercise is more important than just to exercise.”

Your regimen should also incorporate some strength training, along with balance and flexibility moves (best example is YOGA). They can help keep you mobile and reduce injuries – especially from falls, which are often catastrophic for older people’s health.

Watch the video: YOGA the Journey of True Self

Ease into your routine…

Of course, older adults should always speak with a healthcare professional before beginning any new regimen, especially if you have a chronic condition, like a heart disease. Your healthcare professional can help you decide on a safe, effective routine attuned to your fitness level.

Whatever you do, you must decide if planting yourself on the sofa is worth your long-term brain and heart health: As I emphasize to patients, ‘A rolling stone gathers no moss.’

Also Read: Inter-Relation Between Physical and Mental Health

Dr. Nitin. V

Asst. Prof. & Consultant Panchakarma Specialist

S.D.M Institute of Ayurveda and Hospital

Anchepalya, Musuru Road Bengaluru-74

Ph: 080-22718025

Email: dr.nitin.v.89@gmail.com  Mob: +91 99018 65656

The post What it takes for a healthy HEART and a healthy BRAIN ? appeared first on Health Vision.

Winter season can be a tough time for everyone to stay healthy. The cold weather can trigger the onset of many preventive health conditions in children and adults. From common cold to various skin ailments, the cold weather can also affect your heart, especially if you have cardiovascular disease.

Cold weather can affect your heart health:

In order to maintain the body temperature throughout the winter, our bodies go through specific physiological and biochemical changes. The cold can constrict your blood vessels and coronary arteries, resulting in high blood pressure, restricted blood flow, and a decreased supply of oxygen to the heart, blood clotting which can lead to a heart attack.

 In addition, to maintain a healthy body temperature, your heart has to work more in the cold. Hypothermia is a disorder that occurs when the body loses heat more quickly than usual, causing heart muscle damage. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable. Elderly adults may also have less subcutaneous fat and a reduced capacity to perceive temperature, allowing them to endure hypothermia without realising it.

Some of the healthy tips to follow during the winter are;

         Stay warm: Limit your time spent outside in the cold weather, and if you must go out, dress warmly in layers, cover your head and hands, and wear warm socks and shoes.

   Overheating oneself is not a good Idea: Overheating can occur when you dress warmly and then engage in physical activity. When blood vessels dilate too fast as a result of overheating, hypotension (low blood pressure) develops in those who have cardiac difficulties.

         Obtain a flu shot: Winter also increases your chances of catching the flu because of the low humidity caused by cold weather and indoor heating. Anyone with heart problems is at risk from the flu.

         Regular exercise: It is essential, with at least 30 minutes of activity every day in chilly weather. However, avoid exercising outside first thing in the morning. Indoor activities such as static cycling, treadmill running, and yoga are also good options.

         Maintain your diet: It is ideal to limit the amount of salt and sugar intake in your diet. Excessive sugar can cause insulin resistance, obesity and diabetes and too much can cause water gain and high blood pressure, which can lead to heart failure, heart attack and stroke. Avoid consuming high protein during winter, it can cause a build-up of mucus in your throat. And while cooking, use polyunsaturated cooking oils such as safflower oil or mustard oil.

         Avoid or limit your intake of alcoholic beverages:  Too much alcohol can cause blood vessels in the skin to dilate, making you feel warmer while pulling heat away from your essential organs. Hence, it is important to completely avoid or limit the amount of your intake.

         Regular Health Checks:  Everyone, including those with no medical history, should undergo regular health check-ups.

Seek help when there is an emergency

If you are feeling discomfort in your chest, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, cold sweat, breathlessness, dizziness it is important to seek immediate medical attention. This can be a sign of a heart attack and delaying treatment could turn fatal. One must ask for help and call an ambulance. Cold temperatures can be stressful. It can be hazardous or even deadly for people who have heart problems.

If you’re in a chilly area, make sure you follow procedures to lower your risk. It is essential to continue to live a healthy lifestyle and eat nutritious food. Eat healthily, get enough sleep and exercise to keep your heart healthy not just in the winter, but all year.

Dr Sanjay Bhat –  Bengaluru

Senior Consultant, Interventional Cardiology

The post Cold weather can affect your heart health – know how? appeared first on Health Vision.

Heart is the seat of emotions especially love & devotion. It is the central place for life & existence. It’s just a hollow muscular organ located behind the sternum that pumps blood through blood vessels by repeated rhythmic contractions which supplies blood with oxygen & nutrients. Coronary arteries are vessels that supply the blood to the heart muscles. Heart block or decreased blood supply to arteries leads to Coronary Heart Disease (CHD).

The symptoms seen due to coronary ‘blocks’ are generally Chest pain technically known as (Angina Pectoris), heart attack (Myocardial Infarction),reduced pumping (Heart Failure) and may be sudden death due to cardiac arrest.

When there is an artery blockage, the blood supply to the heart stops causing heart attack, because heart needs regular supply of blood for its normal functioning.

Some of the tips to maintain healthy heart: 

1. Healthy weight: It is necessary to maintain a balanced weight of our body. If you are overweight, it increases your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

2. Nutritious diet: Eat a nutritious diet every day, but limit fats and cholesterol. Pick fat-free or low-fat dairy products in your routine. As an alternative to solid fats like butter, practise monounsaturated oils like olive and peanut and polyunsaturated oils like sesame and sunflower.

3. Exercise regularly: To have a healthy heart it is advised to have physical activities. Exercise regularly for about 30 to 60 every day.

4. Omega-3s: Eat food which has omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts, eggs, yogurt etc.

5. Eat adequate fruits and vegetables: It is necessary to eat vegetables and fruits which has nutrients, potassium and antioxidants that protect against heart attack.

6. Don’t consume alcohol: It is to be noted that alcohol consumption raises BP, hence avoid consuming the same.

7. Minimise salt intake: Limiting salt in your diet and changing your lifestyle can help prevent high BP.

8. Avoid Smoking: One of the best way to protect yourself against heart attack is stop smoking.

Exercising for a healthy heart

Regular physical activity like walking or exercise may lower the danger of a heart attack. If you’re middle-aged or older and haven’t been exercising regularly or have a chronic health problem, consult your doctor.

Walk for 5-10 minutes every day, gradually increase the duration.

• Properly schedule your regular exercise, at-least 45 to 60 minutes in a day.
• Stretching, aerobic and strengthening are helpful, but it is to be remembered to maintain the intensity in each exercise session like warm-up, workout and then slow-down.
• Other exercise like swimming, bicycling, walking, gardening, climbing stairs or washing floors can burn calories and help improve your health, but don’t overdo it.

 Tips for a heart-healthy diet

1. Use nonstick pans.

2. Bake, boil, steam or grill foods instead of frying them.

3. Try low-fat snacks that have been baked instead of fried

4. Eat fewer “fast foods” (burgers,   fried foods), which are high in fat. Instead, eat more fruits, vegetables and carbohydrates (rice, pasta, breads).

5. Drink low-calorie beverages.

6. Eat less fat (ghee, butter, coconut/palm oil, cream, animal fats)

7. Choose low-fat dairy products, such as skimmed milk, and low-fat cheese.

8. Try to limit how many sweets you eat.

9. Avoid or restrict egg yolk

10. Buy lean cuts of meat, and eat fish, skinless chicken and turkey

Also read: The Covid-19 impact on heart – Heart patients must take extra care

Steps for prevention of heart attack

1. Smoking cessation

2. Blood pressure control

3. Good Blood sugar control

4. Weight management

5. Achieve recommended lipid levels

6. Regular Exercise / Diet / De-stress

Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath
Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiologist
Tathagat Heart Hospital at Mallige Medical Centre premises
No. 31/32, Crescent Road, Bengaluru – 01
Phone : 080- 2235 7777 | 99003 56000
E-mail: mahanteshrc67@gmail.com
http://tathagathearthospital.com/

The post Heart attack – How to reduce the risk? appeared first on Health Vision.

Increasing presence of calcium deposits in coronary arteries will gradually lead to their narrowing down, triggering a heart attack if preventive measures are not taken. Everyone above the age of 18, especially those with a family history of heart blockage, should undergo the calcium-score screening heart test once a year.

A calcium-score screening heart test, also called coronary calcium scan, uses Computerized Tomography (CT) to detect calcium deposits in coronary arteries. Ultra-low dose CT scan can detect coronary calcium score. It takes roughly five minutes and uses only 1/50th radiation of a conventional CT scan.

The scanner takes multiple pictures of the heart in thin sections, which are then combined to produce a view that reveals calcium deposits as white specks. The machine’s software then calculates a score based on the amount of calcification. Any score above zero indicates the presence of plaque.  we are currently seeing a 20% positive rate for heart calcium among people getting themselves tested. This means that one in five people carry calcium deposits in their heart arteries, which will gradually keep increasing if nothing is done.

High risk of heart attack or any other heart disease

The calcium score reflects the total area and density of calcium deposits in heart arteries. A score of zero means no calcium is seen in the heart, translating to a very low chance of heart attack in the future. When calcium is present, the higher the score, the bigger is the risk of heart disease. A score of 100 to 300 indicates moderate plaque deposits and is associated with a relatively high risk of heart attack or any other heart disease over the next 3-5 years. A score greater than 300 is a warning sign of extremely high risk of disease and heart attack.

A change in lifestyle is necessary

If the calcium score is high, you have to consult a cardiologist for specific treatment. A change in lifestyle is necessary, apart from taking recommended medicines. I advise people to continue moderate exercise but not do vigorous exercise. The more you exercise, the stronger your heart gets, which lowers the risk. Eat healthy foods such as whole grains and reduce the intake of refined foods and sugar. Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol increase the risk of heart problems. High cholesterol levels play a major role in causing plaques in your heart, hence controlling intake of oily, fried food and cholesterol rich foods will also help reduce your risk of heart attacks.

In 2016, the estimated prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in India was 54.5 million. Mortality associated with CVD in Indians is 20–50% higher than any other population. CVDs contributed to 28% of total deaths in the country in 2016.

Dr. Tausif Ahmed Thangalvadi

Medical Director

NURA diagnostic centre

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