Heart conditions encompass a wide range of disorders that affect the heart's structure, function, or blood vessels according to specialist doctors in Sri Lanka. Certain conditions are severe and may even require surgery in a private hospital in Sri Lanka, while others are a little milder. Here are some of the different types:

●      Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to plaque buildup, which can lead to chest pain (angina) or heart attacks.

●      Heart Failure: A condition where the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. It can result from various causes, including CAD, high blood pressure, or previous heart attacks.

●      Arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeats caused by problems with the heart's electrical system. Types include atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and bradycardia.

●      Valvular Heart Disease: Problems with one or more of the heart's valves, which can lead to issues like regurgitation (backward flow) or stenosis (narrowing).

●      Congenital Heart Defects: Structural problems with the heart present at birth, which can affect the heart's walls, valves, or blood vessels.

●      Cardiomyopathy: A disease of the heart muscle that can lead to heart failure. Types include dilated, hypertrophic, and restrictive cardiomyopathy.

●      Pericarditis: Inflammation of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart, which can cause chest pain and other symptoms.

●      Myocardial Infarction: Commonly known as a heart attack, this occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, causing damage to the heart muscle.

●      Hypertension: High blood pressure, which can strain the heart and lead to other heart conditions if left untreated.

●      Aortic Aneurysm: An abnormal bulge in the wall of the aorta that can rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding.

●      Endocarditis: An infection of the inner lining of the heart, often caused by bacteria.

●      Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Narrowing of the arteries in the legs, which can affect circulation and lead to pain and other complications.

These conditions can vary in severity and may require different types of treatment, including lifestyle changes, medication from a reputed pharmacy in Colombo, or surgery. Regular check-ups with your cardiologist through a channelling centre in Colombo, and a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing these heart conditions.

How should you take care of a heart patient? Things you should and should not do

Taking care of a heart patient involves a combination of medical management, lifestyle changes, and emotional support. Here are some key guidelines on what to do and what to avoid:

Things You Should Do

1.     Encourage Medication Adherence:

●      Ensure the patient takes prescribed medications on time.

●      Help organise medications if needed (e.g., pill organisers).

2.     Promote a Heart-Healthy Diet:

●      Emphasise fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

●      Limit salt, sugar, and saturated fats.

●      Consider consulting a dietitian for personalised meal plans.

3.     Encourage Regular Physical Activity:

●      Promote light to moderate exercise, as advised by a healthcare provider (e.g., walking, swimming).

●      Encourage activities that the patient enjoys to maintain motivation.

4.     Monitor Weight and Blood Pressure:

●      Keep track of weight and blood pressure regularly.

●      Report significant changes to a healthcare professional.

5.     Support Emotional Well-being:

●      Be there to listen and provide emotional support.

●      Encourage participation in support groups if appropriate.

6.     Facilitate Regular Check-ups:

●      Help the patient schedule and attend follow-up appointments with healthcare providers.

7.     Educate on Heart Health:

●      Teach the patient about their condition and the importance of lifestyle changes.

●      Ensure they understand their treatment plan and signs of worsening symptoms.

8.     Limit Stress:

●      Create a calm environment.

●      Encourage relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

Things You Should Not Do

1.     Do not Skip Medications:

●      Avoid letting the patient skip doses or stop medications without consulting a doctor.

2.     Avoid Unhealthy Foods:

●      Do not bring or prepare foods high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

●      Avoid processed foods that can exacerbate heart issues.

3.     Do not Ignore Symptoms:

●      Do not dismiss any signs of worsening condition, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling.

●      Always seek medical advice concerning symptoms.

4.     Avoid Sedentary Behaviour:

●      Do not allow excessive sitting or inactivity. Encourage short walks or light activities.

5.     Do not Pressure Them:

●      Avoid putting pressure on them to change quickly. Lifestyle changes take time.

6.     Avoid Second-hand Smoke:

●      Ensure the patient is in a smoke-free environment. If they smoke, encourage cessation.

7.     Do not Disregard Emotional Needs:

●      Avoid ignoring signs of anxiety or depression; these are common in heart patients. Offer support and suggest professional help if needed.