Introduction

Hypertensive heart disease is a chronic medical condition that develops over a long period of time in individuals with high blood pressure (> 120/80mmHg). As individuals age and continue to have elevated blood pressure, they are at an increased risk of developing heart disease, including heart failure and arrhythmias.

Signs and symptoms of Hypertensive Heart Disease

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Stroke

Causes of Hypertensive Heart Disease

• High blood pressure
• Physical inactivity
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Advancing age
• Overweight
• Smoking
• High salt diet
• Increased alcohol consumption

Understanding Hypertensive Heart Disease in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, Hridya Avrodh is a term used to refer to the conditions that lead to heart failure. The major channel that is associated with the heart is the Rasa Dhatu (one of the 7 tissues in the body). Hypertension is caused because of an imbalance in the doshas. An increase in Vata and Pitha dosha can cause high blood pressure. This imbalance in doshas can be due to a variety of factors such as poor diet, emotional and psychological trauma, poor digestive fire, etc. All of these contribute to the build-up of Ama (toxins) which is the main cause of aggravation of Rasa Dhatu. The accumulation of Ama in the heart increases the risk of heart failure.

Treatment and Management

Hypertensive heart disease is usually managed through lifestyle changes and medications such as thiazide diuretics, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and Angiotensin-Receptor Blockers (ARBs). If heart disease is caused by another underlying medical condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, treating it may help reverse the heart condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to open narrowed arteries or to insert a device to improve heart function.

Care offered by SGP’s PSA has been demonstrated to be effective in alleviating symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for patients with hypertensive heart disease. The primary focus of care delivered by the PSA is to manage symptoms, address emotional and psychological distress, and improve overall comfort.

FAQs about Hypertensive Heart Disease

1. How does hypertension cause heart failure?

   High blood pressure makes your arteries less elastic, which reduces the blood and oxygen flow to your heart, leading to heart failure. Reduced blood flow to the heart also causes angina pectoris or chest pain.

2. How is hypertensive heart disease diagnosed?

   Healthcare providers may carry out tests such as electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, cardiac stress tests, and chest X-rays, and coronary angiograms to diagnose hypertensive heart disease.

3. What diet should be followed to lower high blood pressure?

   Reduce the intake of salt and fatty dairy products, increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, poultry, nuts, and legumes.

4. Can stress lead to hypertensive heart disease? 

   Stress-related reactions can lead to an increase in blood pressure over a period of time. While there is no evidence that stress alone is the cause of chronic high blood pressure, it is possible that an unhealthy response to stress can lead to a rise in blood pressure and increase the risk of hypertensive heart disease.

5. Can drinking adequate amount of water lower the risk of developing heart failure?

   Good hydration reduces the amount of sodium in your body, which can relieve the stress on your heart. Drinking enough water (at least 2 litres /day) can help prevent or reduce the risk of serious heart issues.