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Home Care for Patients With Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease is the term used for the buildup of fat-based plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. If left untreated, this plaque buildup---or atherosclerosis---can severely restrict blood flow or promote the production of blood clots. Either condition may lead to heart attack, heart failure and death. Home care is an important component in the fight against coronary artery disease, and many home-based treatment options are available.

  1. Lifestyle Modification and Follow-up Testing

    • If you are suffering from coronary artery disease but have not experienced a heart attack or heart failure, your home care may be based on lifestyle changes to reduce the effects of your condition. Typically, if you smoke, your doctor will strongly urge you to quit. You will also benefit from eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and low in cholesterol and saturated fat. Regular exercise will also help you stay healthy, and your doctor or physical therapist may help devise an appropriate exercise program. If you are overweight, you will also benefit from shedding excess pounds. Uncontrolled stress may significantly degrade your heart health, and your doctor may also recommend participation in a stress management program.

      In addition to these steps, you will need to see your doctor regularly for follow-up testing, including blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar checks. Since your condition places you at risk for heart attack, familiarize yourself with its signs to safeguard your health. Increase your safety net by telling friends and co-workers about your disease. If you feel anxious or depressed, ask your doctor for help. Left unaddressed, these states of mind can significantly increase your heart attack risks.

    Medication to Reinforce Home Care

    • You may also need to reinforce lifestyle changes with medications. Potential options include statins (Lipitor, Crestor), aspirin, beta blocker and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Consult your doctor for a full explanation of these treatments.

    Complementary Therapies

    • Certain complementary therapies may also help you manage the effects of your disease. While these options are not meant to replace medical treatment, they can promote a positive approach to your condition. Potential options include yoga, meditation, biofeedback, massage, aromatherapy, meditation and dedication to a spiritual practice. Let your doctor know if you are pursuing any of these approaches, and do not halt medical treatment without specific approval.

    Rehabilitation Programs

    • If you have suffered a heart attack or heart failure, your doctor may refer you to a cardiac rehabilitation program designed to provide counseling, appropriate exercise options and training to identify future risk factors. Commonly, the recommended length of participation in such programs is three months, but the American Heart Association notes that longer-term rehabilitation is much more successful in creating healthy life habits. To help increase your own chances for continued home care success, seek out the longest rehabilitation option available to you. You will gain additional benefit from continued family support.

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