Coronary Heart Disease: Essential Guidelines for Patients

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a serious condition that requires careful management to prevent complications and improve quality of life. Below are key recommendations that patients should follow to maintain heart health and reduce the risk of cardiac events.

1. Maintain a Heart-Healthy Diet

Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing coronary heart disease. Patients are advised to adopt a balanced, heart-healthy diet that emphasizes fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. It's important to limit the consumption of foods high in saturated fats, as these can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels and worsen arterial blockages. While reducing unhealthy fats, it's equally important to include moderate amounts of healthy fats—such as those found in nuts, seeds, and fatty fish—to support overall cardiovascular function.

Moreover, fiber intake should not be overlooked. High-fiber foods help regulate digestion and prevent constipation, which can place additional strain on the heart. Severe constipation has been linked to increased risk of heart attack in some patients, making dietary fiber an essential part of the daily meal plan.

2. Engage in Regular, Moderate Physical Activity

Physical inactivity can lead to muscle weakness and reduced cardiovascular endurance, which is especially dangerous for individuals with CHD. Therefore, regular exercise is highly recommended. However, it must be tailored to the individual's physical capacity and health status.

Experts suggest that patients should aim for moderate-intensity exercise, keeping their heart rate within a safe range—approximately 60% to 80% of their maximum heart rate (calculated as 220 minus age). It's important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of workouts based on personal tolerance. Sudden, high-intensity activity should be avoided, as it may trigger myocardial ischemia or other cardiac complications.

3. Manage Emotional and Psychological Well-Being

The Impact of Emotions on Heart Health

Emotional health is a vital component of overall cardiac care. Strong emotions such as stress, anxiety, anger, and fear can have immediate and lasting effects on the cardiovascular system. These emotional states can cause fluctuations in heart rate and blood pressure, potentially triggering angina or even heart attacks in vulnerable individuals.

Patients are encouraged to practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or guided relaxation. Seeking support from family, friends, or professional counselors can also make a significant difference in maintaining emotional balance and promoting long-term heart health.