Vol. 28, No. 3 #2 (June 2005). Today's Medicine Provides a Second Chance for Healthy Hearts.

• Author: By Dr. John Barrasso

Wyoming Bar Journal

2005.

Vol. 28, No. 3 #2 (June 2005).

Today's Medicine Provides a Second Chance for Healthy Hearts

WYOMING LAWYERJune 2005/Vol. XXVIII, No. 3Today's Medicine Provides a Second Chance for Healthy HeartsBy Dr. John Barrasso

Several decades ago, preventing heart attacks was something of a hit-and-miss proposition. Today, medical science has advanced to the point that we CAN prevent many heart attacks, especially heart attacks brought on by coronary artery disease. Through coronary artery bypass surgery and less invasive techniques such as angioplasty or insertion of artificial arterial wall supports called stents, we can open clogged arteries and give patients a second chance at having a healthy heart. But with that second chance comes some personal responsibilities. Getting a second chance at a healthy heart isn't a guarantee our hearts will stay healthy. Coronary artery bypass surgery, angioplasty, or stents don't CURE coronary artery disease. Unless we improve our cardiovascular health, we may once again find ourselves with clogged arteries, increasing again our risk of chest pain or a heart attack. In fact, 15 percent of coronary bypass patients experience chest pain again within five years of their surgery and 10 percent experience a heart attack or must undergo another procedure to unclog their arteries and restore flow to their hearts. So if you get a second chance, don't waste it. It's important to recognize that your arteries could clog up again if you don't change your habits and lifestyles.

Those who have suffered coronary artery disease need to take the same steps we urge healthy people to take to keep their hearts healthy and reduce their risk of developing clogged arteries or having a heart attack. Things like healthier low-fat diets and regular exercise are important. So is quitting smoking, learning to manage stress and taking the proper medications, including a daily aspirin. Coronary bypass patients who quit smoking are 15 percent...