Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
Read more health news
Heart Disease
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the disease?
There are many possible treatments for heart disease. Medicines are commonly used to:
Surgery or other procedures may also be used to treat heart disease. These procedures include:
Many other medicines and surgery techniques are used to treat heart disease. Cardiac rehabilitation and other forms of exercise can also help to improve the person's ability to function.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
All medicines and surgeries have possible side effects. Medicines may cause allergic reactions or stomach upset. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Most individuals with coronary artery disease are encouraged to begin a regular exercise program. A person with CAD should make every effort to reduce coronary risk factors. This may include smoking cessation, control of other diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and eating a healthy diet for prevention of heart disease.
Many people with heart disease need lifelong treatment and monitoring. Death may occur, even with the best treatment.
How is the disease monitored?
A person with heart disease will have regular visits to the healthcare provider, along with periodic EKGs and blood tests. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.