Coronary Artery Disease Management And Care

Proper care for coronary artery disease (CAD) doesn't end when a patient leaves the hospital. At home, patients should follow a comprehensive, science-based care plan that covers all aspects of daily life, including diet, exercise, rest, and emotional well-being. One of the most important dietary recommendations is to eat small, frequent meals rather than large ones. Overeating can strain the heart and lead to complications, especially in individuals with weakened cardiovascular systems.

Adopting A Heart-Healthy Diet

Reducing salt intake is crucial for managing heart health. The general guideline for sodium intake is no more than 6 grams of sodium chloride per day for healthy individuals. However, for those with coronary artery disease, this target should be even stricter. To accurately assess sodium consumption, doctors may collect a patient's 24-hour urine sample and analyze the sodium levels to determine total daily intake. Following a low-sodium diet can potentially prevent 50% to 60% of hypertension-related heart diseases.

Choosing Healthy Fats

In addition to limiting salt, a low-fat diet is essential. Saturated fats found in animal products and certain cooking oils should be minimized. Instead, patients should focus on consuming unsaturated fats such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health. Olive oil, rich in monounsaturated fats, is a beneficial alternative. Cholesterol intake should also be monitored closely, as high-cholesterol foods can increase the risk of arterial plaque buildup.

For example, 100 grams of egg yolk contains about 250 milligrams of cholesterol, while the same amount of pork brain contains up to 3,600 milligrams. Pork liver also contains dangerously high cholesterol levels. Therefore, it's strongly advised to limit the consumption of organ meats and other high-fat animal products.

Maintaining Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Stress management is another critical component of CAD care. Chronic stress, lack of sleep, and emotional strain—especially among younger individuals—can accelerate damage to the inner lining of blood vessels and worsen heart conditions. It's important to maintain a balanced lifestyle, get adequate rest, and practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises.

Consistent Medical Monitoring And Lifestyle Adjustments

Patients must also stay committed to their prescribed medications and regular medical follow-ups. Conditions like hypertension and diabetes should be carefully controlled, as they significantly impact heart health. Common medications include statins for lowering cholesterol, antiplatelet drugs to prevent blood clots, and others that help improve blood flow to the heart muscle.

Monitoring heart rate and rhythm at home is also important. If a person experiences frequent palpitations, shortness of breath, or any unusual discomfort, they should seek medical attention immediately. Adopting a healthy lifestyle—such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising moderately, and sticking to a regular sleep schedule—can significantly reduce the risk of complications and improve overall quality of life.