Is it Possible to Reverse Heart Damage?

 

For a long time, it was believed that once the heart of a person weakens, it can never be revived again, and the damage done is permanent. But what if a person were told that with the right lifestyle changes and proper medication, this damage could be reversed? The human heart is a highly resilient organ that has a remarkable ability to adapt and strengthen if proper conditions are provided. While it is true that severe problems like advanced heart failure or extensive scarring can not be reversed, it is equally true that certain positive lifestyle changes like adopting a healthy diet,  exercise, stress management, and the right medications can potentially slow down and in some cases even undo some of the damage done to the heart. The plaque buildup in the arteries can be cleared, heart muscles can be strengthened and overall cardiovascular health can be made to bounce back with proper treatment and healthy changes in lifestyle. The answer to this question depends on the severity of the condition and the steps taken to treat it. In this article, we will discuss in detail the lifestyle changes that can potentially help in regaining a healthy heart and managing Heart disease​, and how a patient can follow them.

Can heart disease be reversed?

While it is not always that a person can reverse Heart disease​, because of the simple fact that it develops over time. However, it is possible to manage the contributing factors, which can slow down the progression of the disease, while in some cases, even undo some of the damage. In the case of some types of heart ailments like Coronary heart disease​, it might be possible to reverse some of its effects and ease out some of the complications. This might include certain diets, stress management, and exercise.

Diet

Choosing or avoiding some foods might help a person slow down the progression of heart disease. Some of these diets include:

1. Plant-based diet – Heart specialists suggest that eating fruits and vegetables that are packed with nutrients and less in calories might be the best options to eat in order to reduce the risk of potential long-term health hazards including heart disease. 
2. DASH Diet – The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is one of the best diets to lower blood pressure and prevent heart disease. It includes lean meats, fish, seafood, nuts and seeds, lentils, beans, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.

Exercise and Weight Management

People who are physically more active have a lower risk of developing serious cardiovascular issues, such as Heart failure, than those who live a sedentary lifestyle. Exercise can help in maintaining a healthy heart in several ways. It can help a person by reducing blood pressure, raising the levels of ‘good’ HDL cholesterol, and lowering the levels of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol. Exercise also helps by managing stress and lowering inflammation in the body.  A patient should consult a Cardiologist near me to check for the appropriate exercises for them based on their heart health and follow the same. They can try out exercises like Yoga, walking, running, and cycling. 

Quit Smoking and Alcohol

Cigarettes, Tobacco products, and alcohol consumption are linked with higher risks of developing heart issues and other cardiovascular problems. Smoking can contribute to the worsening of Coronary heart disease​, adding to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. Smoking not only forms plaque on the walls of the blood vessels but also damages the cells that are present in the lining of the blood vessels.

Reducing Stress

Chronic stress has been linked with increased risk of heart disease and even worsening of the condition. Stress can affect the heart by increasing blood pressure and inflammation, while also interfering with eating and exercise habits. Hence, it is of utmost importance for people with Heart disease​  to take serious steps to reduce their levels of stress. These steps might involve being more active physically, taking therapies or working with a mental health professional, meditation, connecting with other people with similar conditions, journaling etc. 

By now, we know that while it might not always be possible to reverse heart damage, there are some healthy habits that can help in reducing the risk of developing further complications and in some cases, even potentially reduce heart damage to some extent. Thus, these habits can help in easing out the symptoms and reducing the severity of heart disease. However, it is of utmost importance to consult the Best cardiology doctor in Mohali before incorporating any of the above-mentioned steps into a patient’s life.

If you are looking for the Best Heart Hospital Chandigarh or Best Cardiologist in Chandigarh, Sohana Hospital might be the right option for you. Sohana Hospital Mohali boasts of the world’s most advanced, cutting-edge technology and North India’s most trusted and experienced Heart Specialists who provide the most comprehensive and holistic care for all the cardiological ailments of the patients in the region. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a healthy heart!