The heart is vital for our existence. Every organ’s functioning depends on the heart. But, when the heart’s harmony is disrupted by heart disease that often causes lasting damage to the heart muscle, our life can come to a standstill.
It is this standstill that stem cell therapy helps patients of heart disease to move away from. Heart disease includes conditions that directly affect the heart muscle and ultimately result in impaired cardiac function. Myocardial infarction (heart attack), coronary heart disease (CHD), cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart defects are the main types of heart disease.
Stem Cell Therapy for Heart Disease in India
For Myocardial Infarction
When it comes to heart attacks, time is of the essence. Stem cell therapy has been regarded as a revolution in the realm of treatment for heart attacks. It involves introducing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into damaged heart tissues with the aim to regenerate and repair the injured area.
For Coronary Heart Disease
CHD is typically characterized by plaque build-up within the coronary arteries that restricts flow of blood to the heart muscle. The condition can be aggravated by other factors, such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and poor lifestyle habits. CHD can lead to angina and heart attacks. In extreme cases, CHD can also lead to heart failure.
Stem cell therapy for CHD uses MSCs to help modulate inflammation and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels.
For Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a condition that is characterized by the functional as well as structural deterioration of the heart muscle. It impedes the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, leading to a range of symptoms, from shortness of breath and fatigue to life-threatening complications.
The ability of MSCs to differentiate into various cell types, particularly cardiomyocytes (the building blocks of the heart) is a significant factor in treating cardiomyopathy through stem cell therapy.
For Congenital Heart Disease
Congenital heart disease refers to a range of structural abnormalities that affect the heart’s form and function. These abnormalities are present at birth itself. In the realm of pediatric cardiology, stem cell therapy holds incredible promise as it aims to repair or replace damaged heart tissue and even improve long-term cardiac function.
MSCs modulate inflammation and effectively foster cardiac regeneration.
Stem Cell Therapy for Heart Failure in India
Heart failure is the ultimate cardiac challenge. Whether it is a result of coronary heart disease, heart attacks, or any other underlying causes, the fact is heart failure can be fatal.
So, how does one survive heart failure?
Stem cell therapy can repair damaged cardiac tissue, improve blood flow, and restore cardiac functionality. The ability of MSCs to differentiate into cardiomyocytes and other cells of the cardiovascular system can greatly contribute to the regeneration of damaged cardiac tissue.
FAQs
Can stem cells cure heart attacks?
Stem cell therapy aids in repairing damaged heart tissue and improving function. It offers hope for enhanced recovery and cardiac health post-heart attack.
Can heart blockage be reversed?
Heart blockage may be managed and potentially improved through lifestyle changes, medications, and medical interventions. However, the line of treatment differs from patient to patient. Timely treatment can help alleviate symptoms, enhance blood flow, and improve heart function.
What is the immediate treatment for a heart attack?
- Call for an ambulance or visit your nearest Emergency Care
- Take aspirin if advised by a doctor
- Remain calm
Life-saving interventions (clot-busting medications) and procedures like angioplasty may be recommended by your doctor to restore blood flow to the heart, reduce further damage and improve the chances of recovery.
What are the silent signs of a heart attack?
Silent signs of a heart attack may include:
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Indigestion
- Slight discomfort in the jaw or upper back
- Profuse sweating
- Pain in upper arm
It is not necessary that all of the above mentioned symptoms are experienced by the individual during or after a heart attack. Do not just look for the typical symptom of chest pain. DO NOT ignore any of the above symptoms.
Can you recover from a heart attack?
Yes, with prompt and appropriate medical support, one can recover from a heart attack. However, other factors such lifestyle habits, family history, personal history, etc. also need to be considered. Cardiac rehabilitation, medications, correct adherence to doctor’s advice, follow ups, as well as lifestyle changes are essential for recovery.
