Heart Failure
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Heart failure is one of the most common heart diseases. Together with the other cardiovascular diseases, these are the leading cause of death globally, representing 32% of all global deaths. It means that the heart is no longer able to pump enough blood through the body to supply all organs with sufficient oxygen.
A key indicator of heart function is the so-called ejection fraction (EF), which indicates how much of the blood volume is actually ejected from the heart into the body with each heartbeat. A healthy average value is between 50 and 70 per cent.
Causes of Heart Failure
The main causes of heart failure are varied and include:
- High blood pressure
- Coronary artery disease
- Valvular heart disease
- Myocarditis
- Heart attacks
The risk of the disease can be further increased by:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Obesity
- Certain medications
- Environmental toxins such as certain toxic metals. For example, mercury (for example from dental amalgam fillings) or gadolinium (from contrast agents) can put a strain on the heart. Linear gadolinium in particular appears to be problematic.
- Hidden inflammation (silent inflammation)
- Chronic infectious diseases
- Gastrointestinal diseases
Heart Failure Symptoms
The New York Heart Association (NYHA) Classification provides a simple way of classifying the extent of heart failure in four stages of the disease — A, B, C and D. This classification measures a patient’s overall heart function and the severity of symptoms based on limitations of physical activity. Stage A has no limitations of physical activity and no symptoms, while Stage D means that symptoms can occur even at rest. The main signs are often fatigue and tiredness, reduced performance and increased breathlessness. Other possible signs include water retention in the legs, loss of appetite and unexplained weight gain.
Heart Failure Treatment
Conventional therapies aim to alleviate symptoms with medication to improve cardiac performance and slow the progression of the disease. In advanced stages, pacemakers, implantable defibrillators or even heart transplants may be necessary.
Holistic approaches could include herbal medicines such as strophanthin and hawthorn. Strophanthin, a time-honoured heart remedy from an African plant, strengthens and protects the heart muscle and improves oxygen supply. Side effects are rare when used correctly. Hawthorn contains antioxidant flavonoids that help dilate blood vessels, increasing coronary artery blood flow. This improves circulation, lowers blood pressure and protects blood vessels from damage.
In the case of proven deficiencies, the intake of minerals such as potassium and magnesium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can have a supportive effect.
In the case of environmental pollution, chelation therapy to remove toxic metals and the use of INUSpheresis are recommended.
It is also advisable to clarify and treat hidden infectious diseases, hidden inflammations and imbalances in the gut.
Dr. med. Karsten Ostermann M.A.
Early diagnosis and comprehensive care by cardiologists are crucial for improving quality of life, preventing serious complications and slowing down the progression of the disease.
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Further information
The information listed contains relevant topics and serves to improve understanding.