Cor Pulmonale (Pulmonary Heart Disease)

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Cor pulmonale, also known as pulmonary heart disease, is a condition that affects the heart and lungs. It occurs when the right side of the heart becomes enlarged or damaged as a result of high blood pressure in the lungs. This increased pressure in the lungs is called pulmonary hypertension and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary embolism, and sleep apnea.

Causes of Cor Pulmonale

The most common cause of cor pulmonale is COPD, a chronic lung disease that affects millions of people worldwide. COPD causes chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. As a result, the lungs become less efficient at oxygenating the blood, leading to high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries.

Other conditions that can cause pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale include:

Risk Factors for Cor Pulmonale

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing cor pulmonale, including:

Symptoms of Cor Pulmonale

The symptoms of cor pulmonale can be subtle at first and may include:

Prevention and Treatment of Cor Pulmonale

Preventing cor pulmonale involves managing the underlying condition that is causing the high blood pressure in the lungs. This may involve quitting smoking, managing asthma or COPD, treating sleep apnea, and avoiding exposure to air pollution.

Treatment for cor pulmonale focuses on improving the function of the heart and lungs and may include:

Possibility of Oriental Medicine

Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure are alternative therapies that have been used for centuries to treat various health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. While there is limited research on the use of these therapies specifically for cor pulmonale, some studies suggest that they may be helpful in improving lung function and reducing symptoms.

Acupuncture, for example, has been shown to improve pulmonary function and exercise capacity in people with COPD, a common underlying cause of cor pulmonale. Acupressure, which involves applying pressure to specific points on the body, has also been shown to improve breathing and reduce shortness of breath in people with COPD.

Herbal remedies and dietary changes may also be recommended as part of an Oriental medicine treatment plan for cor pulmonale. However, it is important to note that these therapies should be used in conjunction with traditional medical treatment and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cor pulmonale is a serious condition that can lead to complications such as heart and respiratory failure. Prevention involves managing underlying conditions such as COPD, sleep apnea, and pulmonary embolism, while treatment focuses on improving heart and lung function through medication, oxygen therapy, and rehabilitation programs. While there is limited research on the use of Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure specifically for cor pulmonale, these therapies may be helpful in improving lung function and reducing symptoms when used in conjunction with traditional medical treatment. It is important to speak with a qualified healthcare provider before using any alternative therapies to manage this condition.

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